Tourism Kamloops Welcomes the Announcement of Destination BC Board of Directors

Kamloops, BC:   Tourism Kamloops welcomes the announcement of the founding Destination BC Board of Directors by Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training Minister Pat Bell on January 31^st. 

“This new board delivers an impressive roster of well-respected business people with a great understanding of the tourism industry, who will be tasked with establishing the foundation for the future of destination tourism marketing in British Columbia”, says Lee Morris, Tourism Kamloops CEO.

Ms. Morris adds, “The commitment by this Board to be a formula funded, industry-led and an accountable tourism marketing system is applauded and will have positive impacts for tourism in the Kamloops area.  Tourism Kamloops looks forward to working with this talented group in the coming year.”

Destination BC will take full responsibility for operations on April 1, 2013. 

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000   C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Tourism Kamloops, Kamloops Chamber of Commerce and City of Kamloops Service Agreement

Kamloops, BC – Effective January 1, 2013, Tourism Kamloops assumed operation of the Kamloops Visitor Centre, formerly run by the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce, as part of a new business model for offering a comprehensive tourism marketing service.

The Chamber has operated the Kamloops Visitor Centre since 1939. “We have been honoured to fulfill this contract with Tourism BC and the City for the past 73 years,” states Maurice Hindle, President of the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce. “Tourism Kamloops is the established tourism marketing organization in our city and it is a logical transition to have the Visitor Centre under their auspices.”

As part of this new business model, the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce will be relocating from its current offices in the Visitor Centre to new premises located at 615 Victoria Street. This new location is central to the local business community which will aid in connecting with strategic partners and servicing all its members.     

“We appreciate the Chamber, our long-standing relationship, and the work they have done in supporting the business community and helping to build a strong economy,” commented Kamloops Mayor Peter Milobar. “As we implement this new model of service delivery, the City is looking forward to a continued positive relationship with both organizations.”

Tourism Kamloops will be investing in various capital upgrades and renovations to the building’s interior to enhance and modernize the visitor experience as part of this agreement.

Lee Morris, CEO of Tourism Kamloops, notes, “It has been a pleasure having the opportunity to share the facility with the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce for the past seven years and we look ahead to continued synergies as we transition to the next phase.” 

The City of Kamloops contributes approximately $430,000 annually in support of tourism services, and significant investment in the Tournament Capital Program. The tourism sector is critical to a healthy economy, and in addition to other tourism attractions and services offered by the area, the Tournament Capital Program draws a high number of visitors each year. In 2011 alone, over 28,000 participants took part in tournaments or events in Kamloops.

Media Contacts:

Mayor Peter Milobar
City of Kamloops
250-828-3495

mayor@kamloops.ca

Deb McClelland, Executive Director
Kamloops Chamber of Commerce
778-257-5800

deb@kamloopschamber.ca

Lee Morris, CEO
Tourism Kamloops
250-319-4247

lee@tourismkamloops.com

2012 Year to Date Accommodation Tax Revenue in Kamloops up 7% over forcast

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting a 7% increase in 2012 accommodation tax revenues for the months of January through September over forecasts originally set for the same period.

Tourism Kamloops in part attributes this increase to strengthened fall family leisure travel as a result of ongoing marketing efforts targeting metro Vancouver and regional British Columbia.  Additionally, a strengthening in corporate travel is beginning to be realized as Tourism Kamloops builds on its regional BC efforts.

“This increase is great news for Kamloops,” says Lee Morris, CEO. “With a robust targeted family leisure marketing campaign into the BC market and dedicated efforts to attract regional corporate and association business, revenue forecasts to the end of 2012 are on track.”

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Holiday INN & Suites Kamloops Wins IHG 2012 Torchbearer Award as the # 1 Ranked Holiday INN in Canad

Tourism Kamloops Welcomes the Announcement of Destination BC

Kamloops, BC:Tourism Kamloops welcomes the announcement of Destination BC by Premier Christy Clark during the Host 2012 Conference today in Vancouver, BC. The provincial government has listened to the Provincial Destination Marketing Organization taskforce and has created a new provincial tourism marketing agency that fully meets the needs of the tourism industry.

“The core principles for a new structure for provincial tourism marketing that the industry was seeking are contained within Destination BC”, says Lee Morris, Tourism Kamloops CEO. “The commitment to be a formula funded, industry-led, accountable tourism marketing system is welcomed and will have positive impacts for tourism in the Kamloops area.”

Destination BC will take full responsibility for operations on April 1, 2013.

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Kamloops Halloween Attractions "So Much Fun, It's Scary"

Kamloops, BC: Local attractions are pulling out all the stops to offer Halloween fun for all ages. In fact, the festivities start early October to entice locals and visitors to take part in the Halloween magic featuring everything from a ghost train and corn maze to haunted cemetery tours and zipline adventures.

“This Halloween season in Kamloops has something for everyone,” says Tourism Kamloops’ CEO Ms. Lee Morris. “The younger kids are invited to bring their parents to a Spooky Skate at Memorial Arena, a Spooky Swim at the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, Boo at the Zoo at the BC Wildlife Park and a giant corn maze at the Tranquille Farms.”

The giant corn maze is in fact the Tranquille Farm’s first in 147 years where visitors are challenged with the task of finding their way through the 9 foot tall corn stalk maze using provided clues.

“Older kids and adults will enjoy the Ghost Train, hosted annually by the Kamloops Heritage Railway,” says Morris. “A headless horseman, ghost bride and other characters ensure those travelling on the rail tour get a good fright! Plus, the Kamloops Museum & Archives is taking guests exploring ancient burial grounds and historically spooky spots throughout the city.”

Older kids and parents will also enjoy the Agri-Adventure Tourism X-perience combining a Zipline tour with Tree Top Flyers and pumpkin picking. And those who are 19+, can cap off a Halloween weekend in Kamloops with a self-guided walking Brew Tour downtown stopping for a pint of the Noble Pig’s festive ‘Pumpkin Ale’.

“We have a ton of information on all things Halloween at www.tourismkamloops.com/boo and invite our locals and visitors to come let loose and just play in Kamloops this Halloween.”

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Tourism Kamloops' "Stand In" Campaign... Let the Dogs Out!

Kamloops, BC: “Everyone wants a “Stand In” to take their place. Stand In’s aren’t just for people; however. On September 17th, Tourism Kamloops launches their fall segment “Stand In” campaign with a twist. The “Stand In” campaign concept plays with the idea of getting BC residents to get out of their mundane everyday situations, leaving their “Stand-In” to take their place while they are participating in fun activities in Kamloops – this time, don’t forget the dog. Whether your dog is stuck in the confines of an urban setting or hates visiting the vet – they too can have a chance to win a “Stand In” while they getaway to dog-friendly Kamloops.

“We are excited to promote the abundance of dog-friendly amenities including numerous off leash hiking parks, beaches, dog friendly outdoor cafes and accommodation options,” said Tourism Kamloops’ CEO, Ms. Lee Morris. “Not only will the four legged friends have a ball in Kamloops, their humans will have a great time too.”

Tourism Kamloops is offering a “Lucky Dog” getaway package including accommodation, two VIP tickets to the Cesar Milan Tour on November 9th, a couple’s massage at Canada’s only ginseng spa and more.

“A Global TV campaign will run for three weeks starting today as well as continued promotion on Twitter featuring additional prizing.” Suggested tweet: “Tell @tourismkamloops when your dog needs a #standin to take their place for a chance to win a 'Lucky Dog' getaway to #Kamloops.”

This campaign will drive consumers to www.tourismkamloops.com for more information on vacation ideas and experiences in Kamloops. The continued online social media strategy utilizing E-blasts, Facebook and Twitter are all housed on a unique microsite – www.standin.ca.

“The “Stand In” campaigns have generated a lot of buzz for Kamloops,” says Ms. Morris. “This segment offers an extension to the core family friendly message depicting the array of fun activities in the Kamloops area. Our primary goal is to showcase Kamloops’ diverse family attractions and to drive increased visitation from the BC market. We are confident this initiative will convert into incremental tourism revenues for our area.”

Contact: Ms. Lee Morris, CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000
C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Tourism Kamloops' 2012 Kamloops Cocktail - Five Finalists Face Off

Kamloops, BC: The five finalists of the 2012 Tourism Kamloops Cocktail Competition have been determined. On August 9th, Ramada’s Rooftop Lounge, Hoodoos at Sun Rivers, Terra Restaurant, Frick and Frack and ORA Restaurant Lounge will face off at St. Andrews on the Square where a panel of judges will select the overall winner based on the presentation by lounge, presentation of the cocktail and how well the cocktail tied into the city’s history.

2012’s competition embraced the celebration of Kamloops’ Bi-Centennial whereby participating cocktails featured an interpretation of the history of Kamloops. Using a maximum of six ingredients, the cocktails have been included on the establishment’s menu since July 9th and will remain after the competition until September 4th. Online voting took place weekly at www.tourismkamloops.com/cocktail. A total of 3866 votes were cast over the 4 week period.

“Tourism Kamloops would like to thank the restaurant partners for participating in this event. This event has allowed us to showcase Kamloops’ diverse hospitality industry and has encouraged locals and visitors to celebrate a significant historical milestone for Kamloops in a festive, summer-inspired fashion,” said Tourism Kamloops’ CEO, Ms. Lee Morris.

The 2012 Kamloops Cocktail campaign combined the innovation of local restaurateurs with the celebration of Kamloops’ Bi-Centennial, all in the spirit of embracing summer in Kamloops.

For more information:
Ms. Lee Morris, CEO
P: 250.372.8000
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

2012 Year to Date Accommodation Tax Revenue in Kamloops up 4% over 2011

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting a 4% increase in 2012 accommodation tax revenues for the months of January through April over 2011 numbers for the same period.

Tourism Kamloops in part attributes this increase to strengthened family leisure travel as a result of ongoing marketing efforts targeting metro Vancouver and regional British Columbia. This builds on the continued strength in sport tourism in Kamloops.

“These numbers are in line with forecasts set for 2012.” says Lee Morris, CEO. “With robust targeted family leisure marketing campaigns into the BC market and the continuation of diverse sporting events being hosted in Kamloops, there is considerable optimism that the forecast revenues for 2012 will be achieved.”

For more information:
Ms. Lee Morris, CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Tourism Kamloops' "Stand In" Campaign... Get away from your everyday!

Kamloops, BC: “Everyone wants a “Stand In” to take their place. Tax time, rush hour traffic or during a dentist appointment, everyone wants to get away from their everyday – so, get away to Kamloops!” On May 28th, Tourism Kamloops will launch their summer consumer “Stand In” campaign. The “Stand In” campaign concept plays with the idea of getting BC residents to imagine the opportunity to get out of their mundane everyday situations, leaving their “stand-in” to take their place while they are participating in fun activities in Kamloops.

“We’re excited to be launching our summer “Stand In” campaign featuring TV Personality, Meteorologist and Kamloops’ Home Town Boy, Mark Madryga,” said Tourism Kamloops’ CEO, Ms. Lee Morris. “The campaign will kick off province wide on Global TV BC with two commercials– one highlighting Mark Madryga and his family taking in Kamloops’ family friendly recreational activities, the second showcasing grandparents and their grandchildren experiencing many of the local attractions.”

The campaign will drive consumers to www.tourismkamloops.com for more information on vacation ideas and experiences in Kamloops. An online social media strategy will commence utilizing E-blasts, Facebook, and Twitter all housed on a unique microsite – www.standin.ca. Two contest components have been added - one inviting people to tweet #standin to win a selection of prizes. As more tweets are received, more prizes are unlocked. The second, located on the Tourism Kamloops website, features a Kamloops getaway package including local attractions and activities as well as the winners very own life-sized “Stand In” cut out.

“We see this generating a great deal of buzz,” says Ms. Morris. The campaign combines an element of humour with a core message depicting the array of fun activities awaiting families visiting the Kamloops area. “Our primary goal is to showcase Kamloops’ diverse family attractions and to drive increased visitation from our BC market. By driving visitation to our websites and mobile apps for those to discover all that Kamloops can offer, we are confident this initiative will convert into incremental tourism revenues for our area.”

For more information:
Ms. Lee Morris, CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.828.8000
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Final Year End 2011 Accommodation Tax Revenues in Kamloops up 10% over 2010.

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting a 10% increase in 2011 accommodation tax revenues over 2010 year-end numbers.

The Kamloops tourism sector continues to benefit from collaborative and strategic marketing partnerships which include the Tournament Capital, the arts and culture sector, family attractions and the business community.

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris, CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.828.8000
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER WINS A PRESTIGIOUS WORLD TRAVEL AWARD FOR THE SEVENTH TIME

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (January 25, 2012) – Rocky Mountaineer, known across the globe for offering luxurious rail journeys through Western Canada, has once again won the title of “World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train” at the recent 2011 World Travel Awards. It is the sixth consecutive time the company has been acknowledged with this prestigious honour and the seventh World Travel Awards win. Last year, Rocky Mountaineer picked up two awards and was recognized for the first time as “World’s Leading Luxury Travel Product of the Year.” The 18th annual World Travel Awards gala event took place on January 11, 2012 in Doha, Qatar and was attended by hundreds of travel executives from around the world.

“We are truly honoured to be recognized with this award once again, by more than 200,000 esteemed industry professionals and travellers from across the globe,” says Randy Powell, President & Chief Executive Officer of Rocky Mountaineer. “We are flattered to be included and chosen in a category alongside many iconic trains and are committed to delivering an outstanding product and exceptional guest experience.”

Fellow nominees this year included: The Blue Train, The Royal Scotsman, Venice-Simplon Orient Express, The Ghan, Rovos Rail and the Eastern & Oriental Express.

Established in 1993 and described by the Wall Street Journal as the travel industry’s equivalent to the “Oscars,” the World Travel Awards recognize excellence in travel. Votes are cast globally by fellow industry professionals to acknowledge the most important aspect of the tourism industry - exemplary customer service.

In addition to this award, Rocky Mountaineer was recently recognized by Travel + Leisure as one of the world’s “Best Life-Changing Trips” and also named in the Condé Nast 2011 Reader’s Choice Award for being among the “Top 5 Trains in the World.”

For more information on Rocky Mountaineer, please contact your local travel professional or visit rockymountaineer.com. For the latest news and offers, follow us on Twitter @rmountaineer or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RockyMountaineerTrain.

About Rocky Mountaineer
Rocky Mountaineer offers over 45 Canadian vacation packages and four unique rail routes, rich in history and natural wonders, through British Columbia and Alberta. This world renowned, luxurious train travels by daylight through the wild beauty of Canada’s West and is the best way to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Over the past 22 years, Rocky Mountaineer has grown to become the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America and has welcomed more than one million guests onboard from around the world.

Photos available upon request.

Media Contacts:

Rose Chase
Travel Media Relations Specialist
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver, BC
Phone: (604) 606-8473
Email: rchase@rockymountaineer.com

Nancy Dery
Communications Manager
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver, British Columbia
Phone: (604) 606-8421
Email: ndery@rockymountaineer.com

Holiday Inn & Suites Kamloops Wins Intercontinental Hotels Group 2011 Newcomer Award

ATLANTA (Oct. 24, 2011) -- The HOLIDAY INN & SUITES KAMLOOPS received the IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON: IHG, NYSE: IHG (ADRs)] 2011 Newcomer Award as one of the best properties to join the IHG family of brands within the last year as either a new development or a conversion property.

The hotel was recognized during the 2011 IHG Americas Investors & Leadership Conference in Las Vegas, Oct. 24-26, 2011. As one of the hotels selected for the award from all the IHG brands, the HOLIDAY INN & SUITES KAMLOOPS met the highest standards of quality and customer service. Nearly 5,000 franchise owners, operators and company officials attended the 2011 IHG Americas Investors & Leadership Conference.

“We are extremely proud to have the HOLIDAY INN & SUITES KAMLOOPS join our hotel system,” said Kirk Kinsell, president, the Americas, IHG. “We look forward to growing our relationship with the PHI HOTEL GROUP, management company of the HOLIDAY INN & SUITES KAMLOOPS, as they have clearly made the guest experience a top priority when visiting this new property.”

“When the hotel opened on the North Shore there were many questioning the viability of the development and to win this award is something our entire team is proud of. It reflects positively on the North Shore and is something the area can share in. We want to thank all of our guests and the local community for their support,” said Stephen Earl, General Manager of the Holiday Inn & Suites.

Since opening in February 2010 the HOLIDAY INN & SUITES KAMLOOPS has achieved the highest level of guest satisfaction. The hotel is currently rated #1 in Canada for overall guest satisfaction among all full service Holiday Inn hotels. The hotel is consistently rated on Trip Advisor as one of the best places to stay in Kamloops. As a strong community business the HOLIDAY INN & SUITES KAMLOOPS has been proud to support many local charities including Variety – the Children’s Charity, Cops for Kids, Kamloops Brain Injury Association and the United Way.

Further inquiries should be directed to:
Stephen Earl, General Manager Holiday Inn & Suites Kamloops
Phone: 250-376-8288

Notes to Editors:

IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global company operating seven hotel brands including InterContinental® Hotels & Resorts, Hotel Indigo®, Crowne Plaza® Hotels & Resorts, Holiday Inn® Hotels and Resorts, Holiday Inn Express®, Staybridge Suites® and Candlewood Suites® . IHG also manages Priority Club® Rewards, the world’s first and largest hotel loyalty programme with almost 60 million members worldwide.

IHG is the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms and franchises, leases, manages or owns over 4,400 hotels and more than 656,000 guest rooms in 100 countries and territories, and has more than 1,100 hotels in its development pipeline.

IHG expects to recruit around 160,000 people worldwide over the next few years and is committed to gender balance throughout its business. We aspire to continue retaining a minimum of 25% female representation on the Board.

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group’s holding company and is incorporated in Great Britain and registered in England and Wales.

Visit www.ihg.com for hotel information and reservations and www.priorityclub.com for more on Priority Club Rewards. For our latest news, visit www.ihg.com/media, www.twitter.com/ihgplc or www.youtube.com/ihgplc.

2011 August Accommodation Tax Revenue in Kamloops up 34.3% over 2010

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting a 34.3% increase in 2011 accommodation tax revenues for August over last year’s August numbers.

The latest accommodation tax revenue report for August has just been released and when calculated into year-to-date numbers, Kamloops has seen an average 17.5% increase over the same period in 2010.

This summer, Kamloops hosted the Kamloops Invitational Soccer Tournament, Watchtower Conventions, Western Canada Summer Games, and the Canadian Harley Owners Group. “The foresight and efforts by the City of Kamloops and the community to make these events a reality cannot be understated.” says Lee Morris, CEO. “The Arts, Culture and Heritage sector of the tourism industry continues to provide outstanding entertainment for the attendees of these events.”

Tourism Kamloops attributes the overall increase in part to an ongoing economic recovery, sport tourism, and tactical marketing by Tourism Kamloops to our markets.

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Canada's Federal Tourism Strategy

Canada’s Federal Tourism Strategy: Welcoming the World found at www.tourism.gc.ca.

The Strategy represents a major collaborative effort involving some 15 federal departments and agencies, and is an important step in building Canada’s tourism advantage.

Our approach is strongly based on consultations undertaken with stakeholders from coast to coast, such as yourself. An open dialogue helped us identify the challenges facing Canada’s visitor economy as well as the many opportunities to be seized.

The Strategy’s objective is to implement a whole-of-government approach to enhance the federal government’s role as an effective partner with industry and other levels of government in support of an internationally competitive tourism sector. It also includes some 30 separate initiatives in the following priority areas:
• increasing awareness of Canada as a premier tourist destination;
• facilitating ease of access and movement for travellers while ensuring the safety and integrity of Canada’s borders;
• encouraging product development and investments in Canadian tourism assets and products; and
• fostering an adequate supply of skills and labour to enhance visitor experiences through quality service and hospitality.

This coordinated effort is just the first step in accomplishing our goals.
I encourage you to visit our website as it provides information to better understand the federal government’s role in tourism and its support for tourism businesses.

Sincerely,
Maxime Bernier
M.P. for Beauce
Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism)

2011 June Accommodation Tax Revenue in Kamloops up 19.4% over 2010.

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting a 19.4% increase in 2011 accommodation tax revenues for June over last year’s June numbers.

The latest accommodation tax revenue report for June has just been released and when calculated into first and second quarter numbers, Kamloops has seen an average 16.2% increase over the same period in 2010.

Full summer numbers will be released in October and November but early indicators are that August was a strong month for Kamloops. “We anticipate the July / August numbers to be robust as well as the City of Kamloops played host to the Kamloops Invitational Soccer Tournament, Watchtower conventions, Western Canada Summer Games, and the Canadian Harley Owners Group.” says Lee Morris, CEO.

Tourism Kamloops attributes the overall increase in part to an ongoing economic recovery, sport tourism, and tactical marketing by Tourism Kamloops to our markets.

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Kamloops Site of Annual Whitecaps Community Clinic September 25th!

KAMLOOPS, BC –– The Vancouver Whitecaps will be returning to Kamloops, September 25th, 2011 to hold their annual Community Clinic, this year under the sponsorship of SportChek.

The clinic has been a popular event for local soccer players for a number of years.

The free clinic is open to players ages 7 to 10 (U-8 to U-11) and is scheduled to run from 1:30pm to 3:30pm at Hillside Stadium.

The Kamloops Youth Soccer Association is assisting the Whitecaps with hosting the clinic, which is one of fifteen similar events being held throughout the province this year.

The Clinic offers a great opportunity for younger players to learn introductory soccer skills with instruction from Whitecaps coaches and players. There’ll also be a chance to get autographs, win Whitecaps’ prizes and participate in a “World Cup” style mini-tournament.

Pre-event registration is required. Parents who wish to register their child for the clinic can do so online through the ‘Caps web site at www.whitecapsfc.com/clinics or by contacting Marlise Buchi at mbuchi@whitecapsfc.com or 778-330-1354.

Tobiano Voted #1 Public Golf Course in BC

Once again Tobiano is voted #1 public golf course in British Columbia.

Rated and scored by Score Golf Magazine as the number 1 course in BC in its bi-annual provincial course ratings. In 2007 when Tobiano opened it was voted best new course in Canada, in 2009 it was voted best course in BC and again this 2011 year!

The Tobiano mission is to be the best. A world class golf course offering the greatest golf experience available is continuing to shine through despite all of the current events at Tobiano and across all golf courses in Western Canada.

Quentin Granger, General Manager appointed in mid June of this year attributes the courses success entirely to its dedicated team of staff. The condition of the course to the turf care team led by Golf Superintendent Terry Smith and the Golfing experience to the golf shop and services team led by Golf Manager Peter Moore.

"Without this excellent group of professional and dedicated people Tobiano would be splashes of green in amongst the sage brush hillsides, these guys make this place what its is, a fantastic looking and exciting course to play" says Granger. He adds "Lots of people find the cream on the cake when they complete their game and enjoy a meal at our clubhouse with its breath taking views, Chef George Moutsos and his team provide wonderful food and outstanding service. This all adds up to the Tobiano experience"

** Quentin Granger and the management team at Tobiano would welcome any member of the media who wished to call or visit to find out first hand what makes Tobiano such a remarkable course. **

For further information and to arrange visits and interviews please contact: Doreen King, Marketing and Promotions Manger at 1.250.434.5858 or doreen@tobianoliving.com

Torch Relay Route Announced for Western Canada Summer Games

Torch Relay Route Announced for Western Canada Summer Games

Kamloops, B.C.; After ten months of planning, the Western Canada Summer Games has finally announced the route for the Torch Relay. The Torch will begin its journey at the Kamloops Airport on August 5th, opening day, at 2:45 pm where local dignitaries Mayor Peter Milobar, MLA Kevin Krueger and MLA and Minister of Environment, Terry Lake will start it on its way through the city. It will be passed along to a total of 40 Torch Bearers before it finally reaches its destination at Interior Savings Centre. Here it will become part of the Opening Ceremonies when it is carried into the stadium by the final Torch Bearer who will light the cauldron. Who that final Torch Bearer is remains a mystery even to the organizing committee.

The 40 Torch Bearers were selected from over 75 applications received. Jo Berry and David Dewhirst are the Co-Chairs for the Torch Relay Committee, Berry states, “Our selection committee did an outstanding job on selecting the Torch Bearers . They include all the demographics of a great city and our goal was equality of all people. Yes there will be local celebrities, but equally important will be all ages, abilities and all with a very special story that led them to carry the WCSG Torch. We can't wait to support each of them in their experience. The uniforms are bright, the smiles will be abundant and we will be right alongside them making it a fun, positive and memorable experience”

Berry had the privilege to carry the Olympic Torch in 2010 and Dewhirst the Paralympics Torch. Their personal experiences with such an event have definitely brought an emotional element of excitement to the Western Canada Summer Games Torch Relay.

The route was designed with the safety of the Torch Bearers in mind while also hitting points of interest throughout the City which provide easy viewing for the public. Places like McArthur Island Park and the Tk’emlups PowWow Grounds where Chief Shane Gottfriedson will paddle the Torch down the river to Riverside Park.

Berry and Dewhirst encourage the community to come out, line the streets and cheer on the Torch Bearers on Friday August 5th starting at the Kamloops Airport at 2:45. The full route map can be found on the WCSG website at www.2011wcsg.ca and in the media. Pick a spot that works for you, bring out your Kamloops pride and be part of the games!

A Nine Day Community Celebration Comes to Kamloops

A Nine Day Community Celebration Comes to Kamloops

Kamloops, B.C.; The Western Canada Summer Games officially announced details of the nightly festival scheduled to take place in Riverside Park from August 5th to 13th in conjunction with the Games.

“This is going to be a huge community celebration with something for the whole family,” states Wayne Hall, Festival Coordinator. “Imagine Canada Day, but for nine days in a row”.

Hall, along with Niki Remesz Marketing and Consulting has lined up an incredible variety of entertainment, displays and activities that is sure to delight children and adults alike.

The festival gets started August 5th, at 4:00 pm on the plaza outside of Interior Savings Centre. There will be music, Uncle Chris the Clown, a fire hoola hooper, face painting, stilt walker, street chalking and more. Then at 7:00 pm the Games Torch arrives to officially kick off the Games inside ISC during the Opening Ceremonies.'

Every day after, up until August 13, there will be a community celebration in Riverside Park between 4:00 and 10:00 pm. The fun will include two stages of music and entertainment featuring amazing BC talent, a food court, interactive displays, an art show, the Westjet Fun n’ Festival Series, Tk’emlups Indian Band tepee setup workshop and arrow head making, CFJC TV onsite, cultural performances from the provinces and territories and the list goes on. For details of the nightly festival check out the Games website at www.2011wcsg.ca.

Throughout the ten days of the Western Canada Summer Games the City will host 2,300 athletes, coaches and managers. It is also anticipated that an additional 2,500 visitors will accompany the athletes. Many of these people will be taking part in the festival, so this is a wonderful opportunity to meet people from all over Western Canada and show them why Kamloops is Canada’s Tournament Capital!

For further information Contact:
Niki Remesz
Phone: 250-374-5996
Email: niki@nikiremesz.com

BC Wildlife Park is new home to Grizzly Cubs

The BC Wildlife Park is thrilled to announce that 2 orphaned Grizzly Bear Cubs will now call the Park their home! The 5-6 month old cubs were found by Conservation Officers outside of Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory. The BC Wildlife Park has been actively seeking new cubs for a few years now to serve as ambassadors for their species, as Shardik, our 37 year old Grizzly is ready for retirement. After consultation with officials in Victoria, Yukon CO’s contacted the Park and starting making arrangements for the cubs to travel to Kamloops. Air North generously donated their flight from Whitehorse to Vancouver where the cubs were picked up. The cubs are doing very well but are currently in strict quarantine as per CAZA regulations. The Park will be hosting a special all day event on August 1st to introduce our newest additions. So come and visit the BC Wildlife Park for first annual BC BEAR DAY and get an up close view of our new cubs!" Contact Glenn Grant, General Manager, W 250-573-3242 ext 231 Cell 250-819-0928 email - Glenn@BCzoo.org

Project Fly In

Click the link below for more information

FREE Children’s Summer Theatre in Riverside Park

FREE Children’s Summer Theatre in Riverside Park

Kamloops Arts Council’s Rivertown Players present
"Medieval Knights"
Tuesday to Saturday
1pm and 3pm

Join Andrew Crabbe, Kirsten Sandberg, & Dianna Springford as they bring Don Quixote, Sir Gawain and The Green Knight, and Percy and The Dragon to life. This is storytelling of epic proportions – physical comedy, songs, and interactive fun with each character telling their own story. Medieval Knights runs until end of July, with Part 2 beginning on August 2nd.

Medieval Knights is generally geared for an audience of children ages 4 to 10, but will be enjoyed by people of all ages (even adults!). The production is weather permitting!

The Kamloops Arts Council Summer Student Arts Program receives funding from HRDC’s Canada Summer Job Program and City of Kamloops Community Arts Grant. Thank you!

Project X Theatre Productions Presents X Fest 2011

PROJECT X THEATRE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS X FEST 2011 IN PRINCE CHARLES PARK!

Ladies and gentlemen! Boys and girls!
Welcome to the greatest show in the world!
X Fest 11 will delight the eye!
We've got chills and spills and thrills oh my!
In Prince Charles park this summer, you'll see
The best outdoor theatre in the city!
With The Compleat Wrks of Wllm Shkspr (Abridged)
An uproarious comedy not to be missed!
And we bring Robert Munsch live to the stage,
Munsch Ado About Nothing will please any age!
From July 20th until August the sixth
Call Kamloops Live Box Office to reserve your tix!

Project X is thrilled for the return of X Fest 2011, our 6th annual outdoor summer theatre festival, featuring two engaging comedies!

Compleat Wrks was first presented as part of X Fest 2008, and was a huge hit! Three not-so-accomplished actors attempt to perform the entire collection of the Bard’s plays in one fast-paced, hysterical evening! Compleat Wrks features local actors Dušan Magdolen (12th Night, A Midsummer Night’s Dream) and Kirk Smith (The Rocky Horror Show, Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead) and Vancouver actor Stefano Giulianetti, and will be directed by TRU theatre instructor Robin Nichol.

Munsch Ado also features three less than professional performers stuck without a show to perform when their human cannonball quits, their bear-wrestler disappears, and their lion gets sold to pay for the bear! However, thankfully, they have 5 stories by popular Canadian author Robert Munsch to entertain the crowd! Watch as they bring to life Murmel Murmel Murmel, More Pies, Class Clown, No Clean Clothes and Good Families Don’t in a way that will captivate kids and make their parents nostalgic for the classic stories about being a kid. Munsch Ado features local actors Sheanna James (Hamlet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream) and Melissa Thomas (As You Like It, Hamlet) and Vancouver actor Evelyn Chew, and will be directed by Amy Baskin (Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead).

Tickets are $20 for adults, $17 for students and seniors, and $10 for kids under 12.
There is also a special Family Pass for Munsch Ado, $50 for a family of 4!
Available now at Kamloops Live! Box Office, 250-374-LIVE, or www.kamloopslive.ca.

X Fest 2011 runs from July 20 – August 6, 2011 in Prince Charles Park.
Visit www.projectxtheatre.ca for a full performance schedule.

CP Steam Train Ride is Coming to Kamloops!

All aboard with Canadian Pacific

Beginning June 24th through to August 5th, 2011, Children’s Wish is partnering with Canadian Pacific and riding the rails on the historic Empress 2816 across Western Canada. For more info about these rides please visit www.childrenswish.ca/cptrainride

Banff-Calgary June 24
Coquitlam-Agassiz July 13
Agassiz-North Bend July 13
North Bend- Ashcroft July 13
Ashcroft- Kamloops July 13
Kamloops- Salmon Arm July 14
Salmon Arm- Revelstoke July 14
Golden- Invermere July 16
Invermere-Fort Steele July 16
Fort Steele- Fernie July 16
Fernie-Crowsnest July 17
Crowsnest-Kipp July 17
Kipp- Vulcan July 18
Calgary- Didsbury July 29
Didsbury – Red Deer July 29
Red Deer Ponoka July 30
Ponoka- Edmonton July 30
Josephburg- Scotford July 30
Joesephburg – Edmonton Round trip July 30
Josephburg- Scotford Aug 1
Joesephburg – Edmonton Round trip Aug 1
Edmonton – Wetaskiwin Aug 3
Wetaskiwin- Bawf Aug 4
Wetaskiwin- Red Deer Aug 5
Red Deer- Didsbury Aug 5
Didsbury- Calgary Aug 5

Kim Antifaeff
Fundraising Coordinator - British Columbia & Yukon
The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada | British Columbia & Yukon Chapter | 119 - 4240 Manor Street | Burnaby, BC |
V5G 1B2
t: 604-299-2241 ext 223 | f: 604-299-1228
kim.antifaeff@childrenswish.ca | Visit our Chapter
Business Number (BN): 12403 8878 RR0001

Local Kamloops Lounges Compete to Mix the Ultimate Cocktail

KAMLOOPS, B.C.: Kamloops is known for many things including energizing recreational opportunities, an abundance of sunshine, genuine and welcoming people, and now … the Kamloops Cocktail.

“The Kamloops Cocktail 2011 promotion is our first trial run at creating a signature drink for Kamloops,” says CEO Ms. Lee Morris. “There are six local lounges participating and they’ve been getting creative in concocting their version of the Kamloops Cocktail.”

The concept of the promotion is to tie the brand of Tourism Kamloops into the flavours of a drink that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, who are 19+, at local lounges this summer. Videos of the creation of the cocktails will be posted on Facebook and YouTube, intending to promote Kamloops’ hospitality industry and engaging social networks of people with the brand of Tourism Kamloops.

“The brand personality of Tourism Kamloops is: Comfortable, Active, Genuine, Vibrant,” says Lee. “Each lounge can use a maximum of 6 ingredients to capture the essence of Tourism Kamloops in a drink, which each lounge will then feature this summer. One lounge will walk away with the 2011 Grand Champion title. The feedback from the participants has been great with local mixologists and bartenders enthusiastically creating their drinks.”

The judges panel includes: Deb McClelland of the Kamloops Chamber, Jann Bailey of the Kamloops Art Gallery, Lisa Strachan of Tourism Kamloops, Bryce Herman of the BC Restaurant & Food Association, Mayor Peter Milobar and Lee Morris of Tourism Kamloops.

Media is Welcome to Attend:
Monday, June 20th, 2011 @ 3pm
Kamloops Art Gallery ~ Studio (main floor)

For Further Information: Ms. Lee Morris | CEO Tourism Kamloops 250‐372‐8000

2011 First Quarter Accommodation Tax Revenue in Kamloops up 16.2% over 2010 First Quarter

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting a 16.2% increase in 2011 first quarter accommodation tax revenues over 2010 numbers for the same period.

The latest accommodation tax revenue report for March has just been released and when calculated into first quarter numbers, Kamloops has seen a 16.2% increase over the same period in 2010. March numbers are the highest seen for that month since the introduction of the Additional Hotel Room Tax in 2005. The 2011 first quarter results are keeping pace with 2010 overall numbers that saw an increase of 15.6% over 2009 tax revenues.

Tourism Kamloops attributes this increase in part to an ongoing economic recovery, sport tourism, a strong meetings market and tactical marketing by Tourism Kamloops to our markets.

“These numbers are strong and exceed forecasts set for growth in 2011.” says Lee Morris, CEO. “With major sporting and other special events being hosted in Kamloops and marketing efforts targeting the metro Vancouver area, there is considerable optimism that the growth will continue throughout the year.”

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

6 Local Golfers Qualify for Western Championship

JUNE 6, 2011: Kamloops is going to be well represented at the inaugural Canadian Tour Western Championship, being held June 9th – 12th at Rivershore Golf Links.

Players from around Western Canada played in the qualifying round at Rivershore today to vie for 14 spots available in the Western Championship. 6 Kamloops players successfully made the cut and will start their rounds with the rest of the field on Thursday. Stephen Connor and Shawn Vanderwal shot 73 while Shawn Fagan and Chris Power shot 74. Ian Henson and Riley Balson completed their successful round with 75.

With a number of our local talent playing in the Western Championship, come out and cheer on the future professional players. Tickets are still available for all four days or individual days. For more ticket information, 250-320-4435 or by email westernchampionshiptickets@gmail.com

About the Canadian Tour

Since its inception as the Peter Jackson Tour in 1971, the Canadian Tour has evolved into a high-caliber, coast-to-coast training ground for professionals on their way to the PGA TOUR, including Steve Stricker, Tim Clark, Mike Weir, and recent AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am winner D.A. Points. Its alumni includes not only the game's Canadian legends, but also many of its most prominent international names, who collectively have won more than 100 PGA TOUR titles and over $450 million in prize money.

Contact: Terry Grimm, Tournament Director
Phone: (250) 320-9481

Sun Peaks Golf Opens Friday, June 3rd, 2011!

Check out this stunning shot taken this morning on Hole #4 of the Sun Peaks Golf Course! The front nine is in fantastic shape and set to open at 8am tomorrow morning.

See you on the greens!

Contact:

Melanie Simmons
Media Relations and Communications Specialist
Tourism Sun Peaks
tspmedia@sunpeaksresort.com

Western Canada Theatre is Nominated for 3 Jessies!

Western Canada Theatre is proud to announce that our March 31 to April 9 production of Mambo Italiano by Steve Galluccio (coproduced by The Firehall Arts Centre) has been nominated for THREE Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards.

The nominees for the 29th Annual Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards were announced at the Christie Lites Nominations Party held on Tuesday, May 24th at the Vancouver TheatreSports League Improv Centre on Granville Island in Vancouver.
Mambo Italiano is the story of Angelo Barberini who shocks his conservative Italian parents by revealing that he’s gay. As his parents struggle to deal with the news and make sense of a modern world, conflict starts between Angelo and his boyfriend Nino, who wasn’t as ready to come out of the closet.
WCT regular Susan Bertoia was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Lead Role, Small Theatre, for her performance as Maria, Angelo’s loud but loving Italian mother. Gina Chiarelli was nominated for Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role, Small Theatre, for her turn as Lina, Nino’s Sicilian mother who refuses to accept her son’s new lifestyle. Gina is also nominated for her performance in The Busy World Is Hushed (one2theatre). Kamloops resident, owner of Pandora’s Costume Box, and designer of numerous WCT shows, Marian Truscott, was nominated for Outstanding Costume Design, Small Theatre for her colourful, fun, yet appropriate Italian inspired design.

The Jessie Richardson Theatre Awards are Vancouver’s annual celebration of what the diverse Lower Mainland theatre community has contributed to an outstanding year of theatre. Eligible productions must be produced (or as in our case co-produced) by a Jessies Company Member, must be professional and must receive at least six public performances in the Lower Mainland.
Our production of Mambo Italiano played at The Firehall Arts Centre April 14 to 30. This year, more than 120 individuals have been nominated in more than 25 categories, displaying the creativity, talent and fortitude of the artists who contribute to the cultural vibrancy of Vancouver.
Jessie Richardson was an extraordinary individual whose supportive involvement in Vancouver theatre spanned over four decades. Her contributions to the growth and vitality of Vancouver's theatre scene were the foundation on which the current thriving theatre community was built.
The 29th Annual Awards Ceremony will be held at the beautiful Commodore Ballroom on Monday, June 20, 2011.
Some of the other nominees with ties to Western Canada Theatre are Actors: Tom McBeath (Mesa), John Murphy (Still Desire You), Jonathon Young (who grew up in Vernon and has performed at WCT in No Exit and Waiting for Godot), Deborah Williams (from last week’s Mom’s the Word), Bob Frazer (Skydive and The Man Who Shot Chance Delaney), Lucia Frangione (No Exit), Daniel Arnold (A Christmas Carol & Mary’s Wedding), Kaylee Harwood (My Fair Lady), Brian Linds (The Man Who Shot Chance Delaney, Roger Maris on Stage and others), Meghan Gardiner (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Last Five Years & The Dreamer’s Quest) & Naomi Wright (The Man Who Shot Chance Delaney and The Island of Bliss). Designers: Gerald King (Wit, A Christmas Carol and many others), Marsha Sibthorpe (Mom’s the Word, Seussical, Alice – A Wonderland and many others), Pam Johnson (Wit, Proof, The Number 14 and others), Phillip Clarkson (Shirley Valentine), Ted Roberts (Ethan Claymore and others), David Roberts (Elisa’s Skin and others), Itai Erdal (Billy Bishop Goes to War & The Island of Bliss) & Kevin McAllister (Billy Bishop Goes to War, Trying, Quarry & Over the River and Through the Woods) Director: Kim Collier (who grew up in Kamloops and directed No Exit & Unity (1918) at WCT) Playwrights: Kevin Kerr (who also grew up in Kamloops and penned Skydive & Unity (1918) for WCT) & Peter Anderson (The Number 14 & The Nativity).

We at Western Canada Theatre are proud of all of the artists nominated for our production of Mambo Italiano and we are excited for the many artists nominated in various categories who have strong ties to this wonderful company. We truly present Kamloops with the best talent possible.

For more info see www.jessies.ca.

For more information, contact Dušan Magdolen at 250-372-3216

Torch Bearer for the Western Canada Summer Games 2011

DO YOU WANT TO BE A TORCH BEARER?

If you missed the Olympics in 2010 here is your chance to experience the thrill and excitement of being a Torch Bearer in a major multi-sport event.

The Western Canada Summer Games are coming to Kamloops August 5th to 14th and 40 Torch Bearers will be selected to take part in the Opening Ceremonies Torch Relay.

This symbolic event will start at the Kamloops Airport and make its way through the City where it will end in a final, triumphant lighting of the caldron at the Opening Ceremonies in Interior Savings Centre.

People from all walks of life will be included in the torch relay. Young or old, athlete or not, you are encouraged to enter your name to be a torch bearer.

To enter the Torch Bearer Contest submit your entry by downloading the form off the Games website at www.2011wcsg.ca or pick one up at the Games Office at 262 Lorne Street. Tell us why you want to be a Torch Bearer and what it means to you. Include your volunteer experience and any other general information about yourself. Deadline for submissions is June 24.

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Contact:
Paula Kully, Community Programs Coordinator
Kamloops 2011 Western Canada Summer Games
Phone: (250) 372-1157
Fax: 250-372-1158
Email: paulakully@2011wcsg.ca
Web site: www.2011wcsg.ca

Local Golfers – Gruber and Krisko - Added to Western Championship Field

MAY 27, 2011:

Local golfers Adam Gruber and Ryan Krisko have been awarded exemptions into the upcoming Western Championship. The ‘Western Championship’ is to be held June 6-12 at Rivershore Golf Links. Adam Gruber is a local Kamloops golfer who currently calls The Dunes at Kamloops his home course. A graduate of Westsyde Secondary, he has played the last three years with the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Wolfpack golf team, helping them to a Canadian Colleges Athletic Association (CCAA) national championship in 2008. Adam has recently graduated from TRU and is looking to become a full-time golf professional.

Ryan Krisko, also from Kamloops, is playing in his first Canadian Tour event at his home golf course of Rivershore Golf Links. Ryan is a two-time Rivershore club champion and has won the Rivershore Amateur Club championship an amazing five times. Ryan has also competed in numerous BC amateur and BC Junior events during his golfing career.

About the Canadian Tour

Since its inception as the Peter Jackson Tour in 1971, the Canadian Tour has evolved into a high-calibre, coast-to-coast training ground for professionals on their way to the PGA TOUR, including Steve Stricker, Tim Clark, Mike Weir, and recent AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am winner D.A. Points. Its alumni includes not only the game's Canadian legends, but also many of its most prominent international names, who collectively have won more than 100 PGA TOUR titles and over $450 million in prize money.

Contact: Terry Grimm, Tournament Director Phone: (250) 320-9481

Strong BC Contingent at Western Championship

MAY 27, 2011:

BC golfing talent will be on display at the upcoming ‘Western Championship’ to be held June 6-12 at Rivershore Golf Links. Roger Sloan, Adam Hadwin, and Mitch Gillis will anchor the BC contingent of golfers who will vie for $125,000 CAD purse. Sloan, who hails from Merritt, BC, recently finished 2nd at the Mexican PGA Championship event.

Adam Hadwin, from Abbottsford, BC, won the 2011 Pacific Colombia Tour Championship in Bogota, Colombia in March. In 2010, his first full season on Tour, Adam placed in the top-10 in his first 3 events. He also captured the 2010 Desert Dunes Classic for his first professional victory.

Mitch Gillis, of Williams Lake, is a former BC Amateur champion. He joined the Canadian Tour in 2008 and has improved his play every year. He has finished in the top-10 multiple times, and finished tied for second place at the 2010 Canadian Tour Championship.

About the Canadian Tour

Since its inception as the Peter Jackson Tour in 1971, the Canadian Tour has evolved into a high-caliber, coast-to-coast training ground for professionals on their way to the PGA TOUR, including Steve Stricker, Tim Clark, Mike Weir, and recent AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am winner D.A. Points. Its alumni includes not only the game's Canadian legends, but also many of its most prominent international names, who collectively have won more than 100 PGA TOUR titles and over $450 million in prize money.

Contact: Terry Grimm, Tournament Director Phone: (250) 320-9481

Local Golfer Added to Western Championship Field

MAY 26, 2011:

Dion Sirianni, a local Kamloops golfer, has been awarded an exemption into the field for the upcoming Canadian Tour event. The ‘Western Championship’ is to be held June 6-12 at Rivershore Golf Club. Sirianni is a full-card member of the Asian Tour for 2011. He is currently the only fully exempt Canadian player on the Asian Tour. “I think it’s exciting,” says Sirianni. “We have some of the best courses around. I have always wanted to play a big-time event at Rivershore.” Dion’s golf career started when he was only 11 years old in Kamloops, BC. He attended college at Lees-McCrae College in North Carolina on a golf scholarship from 2002–2006. Sirianni qualified for the Canadian Tour in 2007 and moved back to Kamloops in 2008. He stayed very involved in golf by becoming an assistant coach with the TRU Wolfpack golf team in 2008.

About the Canadian Tour

Since its inception as the Peter Jackson Tour in 1971, the Canadian Tour has evolved into a high-caliber, coast-to-coast training ground for professionals on their way to the PGA TOUR, including Steve Stricker, Tim Clark, Mike Weir, and recent AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am winner D.A. Points. Its alumni includes not only the game's Canadian legends, but also many of its most prominent international names, who collectively have won more than 100 PGA TOUR titles and over $450 million in prize money.

Contact: Terry Grimm, Tournament Director Phone: (250) 320-9481

2011 Western Canada Summer Games

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 09, 2011

TEAM BC WILL LEAVE ITS LEGACY IN KAMLOOPS BC
Teams with Literacy in Kamloops (LinK) to Create Lasting Legacy

VICTORIA, BC - It started in Halifax with the Mitten Project at the 2011 Canada Winter Games and now in Kamloops at the upcoming Western Canada Summer Games, The ABC’s of Team BC Legacy Project will collect and donate new and gently used books for the children of Kamloops.

Team BC, in partnership with Literacy in Kamloops (LinK), will launch the “Bright Red Bookshelf” project in Kamloops. The ABC’s of Team BC Legacy Project (Athletes Believing in Communities) teams up with LinK to fill custom built bright red bookshelves placed in designated locations in Kamloops with new and gently used children’s books. Children can enjoy these books at the sites and take home free books. Team BC Mission Staff will lead the collection of books, designated for children from birth to 12 years old, from Team BC athletes, coaches, managers, parents, partners and MLAs and deliver them to LinK who will deliver them to bookshelf location sites.

The initiative demonstrates the social responsibility and mobilizes the goodwill that Team BC members feel as participants in a multi-sport Games event and recognizes the needs in their home communities across the province.

“We want to thank the City of Kamloops, Western Canada Games Council and the Host Society of the 2011 Western Canada Summer Games for providing us with the opportunity to create the ABC’s Project which raises the social consciousness for not only our Team BC athletes, but the entire Team BC family,” says Irene Schell, Team BC Chef de Mission. “The project demonstrates the community spirit of all athletes and truly embodies the essence of the Games spirit.”

"This is a wonderful example of the true spirit of the Games and a powerful reminder of our shared values," says Fiona Clare, Literacy Outreach Coordinator for LinK. “Thanks to initiatives such as the ABC’s Project, Team BC has an opportunity to leave a caring, supportive legacy in its wake."

LinK is looking for agencies or organizations who would like to participate in the program and house a bookshelf.

“Agencies who wish to join us in this project can contact LinK at 250-372-9373,” continues Clare.

Team BC will send 356 athletes aged 12 to 22 and 69 coaches to the 2011 Western Canada Summer Games. BC has won the Western Canada Summer Games Cup every year since the Games’ inception in 1975.

The 2011 Western Canada Summer Games take place Aug. 5-14 in Kamloops and will bring together approximately 2,300 athletes competing in 18 sports, along with coaches, managers and officials from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nunavut, Northwest Territories and the Yukon Territory.

Literacy in Kamloops (LinK) is a group of interested community partners who work together to increase the literacy levels of children, youth and adults within our community. LinK works with community partners to develop, maintain and expand literacy programs for all ages. LinK is the result of the 2010 Legacies Now Community Literacy Initiative.

Media Contacts:
Judy Joseph-Black
Team BC Communications Manager
250-217-4518 (cell)
judy.josephblack@gov.bc.ca

Fiona Clare Literacy Outreach Coordinator Literacy in Kamloops (LinK)
250-372-9373
fionaclare@shaw.ca

Interior Savings Moonlight Movie Night

Interior Savings Moonlight Movie Night Tour benefitting the Boys and Girls Club of Kamloops

It is that time of year again! The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer and what better way to celebrate the warmer seasons than with 3 outdoor movie events! Interior Savings Moonlight Movie Nights benefitting the Boys and Girls Club of Kamloops are back! And this year we are hosting 3 outdoor movie events at Riverside Park! Fresh Air Cinema will be setting up their giant inflatable movie screen and amazing sound system for a movie experience you don’t want to miss!

So save the dates: Wednesday July 13, Wednesday July 20 and Wednesday August 24 come and join the fun at Riverside Park! There will be games, snacks, face painting and FUN! Attendance is by donation and all proceeds go to support the Boys and Girls Club of Kamloops.

With the help of B 100 radio, we are gearing up for these 3 events with an on-line vote for your top 3 favourites! Voting starts May 1st -May 31st. Simply visit www.b100.ca to click on your picks!

We hope to see everyone there, the movies will start at dusk so come down early to stake your spot and join in to all the activities. It will be a buzz of excitement!
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For more information please contact:
Jessica Ganton-Stanley
Resource Development Coordinator
Work: 250-554-5437 ext 208
Cell: 778-220-2607
Email: resource@bgckamloops.com

Kamloops Downtown Artwalk, April 16th - May 23rd

Downtown Artwalk
April 16th to May 23rd


The red feet are back in Downtown Kamloops this spring with 55 Local Artists, 43 Downtown Retailers, 1 Satellite Retailer, and 7 downtown alley murals. The Kamloops Arts Council has partnered with the CanGo Grannies and their “Chair Affair” to present 20 artistically painted chairs which be auctioned off May 26th.


This is the biggest Downtown Artwalk – EVER!


Downtown Artwalk is a Kamloops Arts Council annual event that partners local artists with Downtown Retailers. Everyone can participate in Artwalk – here’s how: pick up a map at a participating downtown retailer (you will know they are participating if they have a red Artwalk foot on their door). Follow the map and visit the corresponding numbers - take in the art and shop a little in the wonderful Downtown stores. Downtown Artwalk begins at The Old Courthouse Cultural Centre at 7 Seymour Street West.


For more information contact Jacquie at the Kamloops Arts Council, 250-372-7323


Jacquie Brand
Manager
Kamloops Arts Council
www.kamloopsarts.ca
250-372-7323

The Canadian Tour's Western Championship Golf Event is coming to Kamloops and Rivershore Golf Links

The Canadian Tour’s Western Championship golf event is coming to Kamloops and Rivershore Golf Links!


The local organizing committee for the Canadian Tour’s Western Championship golf event is excited about hosting the first ever Canadian Tour golf event in Kamloops from June 6 – 12, 2011 at Rivershore Golf Links.


“It is indeed an exciting time for Kamloops and the golf enthusiasts in the region!” stated Lee Morris, chair of the Media and Communications Committee for the event. “Kamloops and Rivershore Golf Links will be hosting professional golfers from throughout North and South America.”


Tournament Director, Terry Grimm, expects a full slate of players competing for the first Canadian Tours’ Western Championship golf event and is excited to showcase Rivershore Golf Links. This will be a great event for the Kamloops area and the golf community in the region.


The tournament is in need of volunteers in a wide variety of areas:


· Admissions Gate

· Administration

· Caddies

· Hospitality Tent

· Marshals

· Spotters

· Starters

· Walking Scorers

· Hole Reporters

· Standard Carriers

· Runners

· Shuttle Drivers for Parking

· Billeting

· Volunteers to greet/provide directions

For an opportunity to volunteer for the Canadian Tour’s Western Championship golf event, please fill out the volunteer application form at: www.tourismkamloops.com/ctwc or send an email with your area(s) of interest to: westernchampionship@rivershoregolflinks.com


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Contact for more information:


Lee Morris -- wk: 250-372-8000 -- cell: 250-319-4247 -- lee@tourismkamloops.com


Terry Grimm -- Tournament Director -- 250-573-1298

Countdown Begins to the Golden Anniversary of Tod Mountain at Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks, BC (April 14, 2011) – On November 18, 1961, the Burfield Chairlift began turning for the first time, taking skiers up to the peak of Tod Mountain to access the steep and challenging terrain. At that time, the Burfield lift was the longest chairlift in North America.

50 years later, Tod Mountain has developed into the world class destination known as Sun Peaks Resort, and the Burfield lift is still the place to be for core skiers and snowboarders.

Sun Peaks Resort is gearing up to commemorate the Golden Anniversary of Tod Mountain with celebrations set to commence on December 3, 2011, shortly after the Winter 2011-12 season begins in late November.

The countdown to the 50th officially got underway last week as the Resort’s Board of Directors visited from Nippon Cable in Japan to launch the commemorative 50th logo. Nippon Cable purchased the resort area in 1992 and formed Sun Peaks Resort. A Facebook page for the Golden Anniversary has also been established allowing guests to share their favourite photos and memories of the notorious Tod Mountain Days.

“There are 50 years of memories, photos, and funny stories that we are looking forward to hearing over the next year,” says Anne Haight, Director of Sales and Marketing with Sun Peaks Resort Corporation. “Tod Mountain is the foundation of what is now Sun Peaks and we’re excited to celebrate and share the year with past and future skiers.”

Visit www.facebook.com/todmountain50 to post photos and share stories as we countdown to the 50th Anniversary of Tod Mountain at Sun Peaks Resort!

About Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks Resort is a four season destination resort located in the interior of British Columbia near Kamloops. Recently declared the 2nd Best Ski Resort in Canada and 13th Best in North America by Condé Nast Traveller Magazine readers, Sun Peaks has three mountains which surround an intimate ski-in, ski-out village. In other seasons, Sun Peaks offers a diverse range of leisure activities including 18 holes of golf as well as numerous events and festivals. Sun Peaks Resort was the first ski resort in North America and is the only resort in Canada to receive the ISO 14001 designation recognizing the resorts environmental policies and practices. Sun Peaks can be accessed by two airport gateways - Kamloops (45 minutes) and Kelowna (2 1/2 hours) and by car, only a 4 ¼ hour drive separates Sun Peaks and Vancouver, B.C.

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For further information please contact:
Anne Haight
Director of Sales & Marketing
Sun Peaks Resort Corporation
Direct: 250-578-5405
Email: marketingdirector@sunpeaksresort.com

Kamloops Recognized in Top Ten Cities of the Future In the Americas

For Immediate Release

April 12, 2011

Kamloops Recognized in Top Ten Cities of the Future In the Americas

Kamloops, BC – Kamloops, British Columbia has received a prestigious recognition from Foreign Direct Investment Magazine. The first ever Americas Cities of the Future 2010/11 competition which publishes a ranking of the economic business and financial strengths of cities across the American Continent (both North and South) has recognized Kamloops as 9th overall in their Micro Cities Category, 2nd for its Foreign Direct Investment Strategy and 5th for its Cost Competitiveness in their Micro Cities categories. Micro cities have a population of less than 100,000.

Foreign Direct Investment Magazine – Americas Cities of the Future 2010/11 shortlists were created by independent data collected by fDi Intelligence division across 405 cities across North and South America. Six categories were evaluated: Economic Potential, Human Resources, Cost Effectiveness, Quality of Life, Infrastructure and Business Friendliness. A seventh category was added to the scoring – FDI promotion strategy. In this category, 100 cities submitted details about their promotion strategy and this was judged and scored by our independent judging panel.

"This recognition of Kamloops’ efforts is well deserved. Our growth in infrastructure and business opportunities, our ideal location as a transportation hub as well as our superior quality of life amenities all contribute to Kamloops being a great place to invest. Having such a prestigious ranking will only enhance our efforts to attract international investment into our community," said Dan Sulz, Executive Director Venture Kamloops.

A more detailed list of the winners and categories can be found in this month’s Foreign Direct Investment Magazine – April 2011 or on their website at www.fdiintelligence.com.

fDi Intelligence is a specialist division from the Financial Times Ltd established to provide industry leading insight into globalisation with a portfolio of world-class products, services and business tools that allow organisations such as investment promotion agencies, companies, services providers and academic institutions to make informed decisions regarding foreign direct investment and associated activities.

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For information, please contact:

Anita Grover, Economic Development Manager

Venture Kamloops Tel: (250) 828-6818 E-mail: anita@venturekamloops.com

Western Canada Theatre 2011 / 2012 Season

On March 31st, 2011, Western Canada Theatre announced their 36th professional season of theatre. New Artistic Director, Daryl Cloran, and General Manager, Lori Marchand, presented the upcoming season of plays at Sagebrush Theatre to a gathering of invited media, company friends, sponsors, donors, staff, board and affiliates. This is the first season programmed by Daryl and Lori. Daryl was hired as WCT’s Artistic Director in the summer of 2010. In January, 2011, Daryl and his young family moved to Kamloops and he began full time at Western Canada Theatre.

The upcoming season features, musicals, comedies, dramas, a great family show, celebrity stars and even actors from South Africa! The 2011–2012 Season celebrates the Kamloops community by presenting artists from the community, partnering with other organizations from the community and training the next generation of theatre artists from the community. And that is why, My Theatre is… Western Canada Theatre!

The season opens at The Pavilion Theatre with one of the finest dramas of the 20th century, Betrayal by Harold Pinter. It is the story of a love triangle, told in reverse.

The first Sagebrush production is Letters from Wingfield Farm by Dan Needles, starring Rod Beattie. It is the hilarious tale about a captain of industry trading his pinstripe suit for overalls as he retreats to a hundred acre farm to embrace a less complicated world.

Our big family production next season is the delightful musical parable Joseph and the Technicolor® Dreamcoat by Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber. It is the saga of Joseph and his coat of many colours set to a cornucopia of musical styles and featuring a chorus of children from the Kamloops Thompson Honour Choir!

The first production of 2012 stars Lorne Cardinal of Corner Gas fame (seen this season at WCT in Thunderstick). For the Pleasure of Seeing Her Again by Michel Tremblay is a hilarious and heartrending tribute to his mother. Cardinal as the narrator regales the audience with tales about his feisty mother – a born storyteller with a love of exaggeration and invention.

Next is Noises Off by Michael Frayn, unquestionably the funniest backstage farce ever written. A group of wellintentioned (but not all that talented) actors tries to put on a show, but soon doors slam, clothes fly and fish mysteriously disappear!

The final Mainstage show of the season is near and dear to Daryl’s heart. Daryl created UBUNTU (The Cape Town Project) with his former company Theatrefront. It is a great way for Daryl to introduce Kamloops to work he is very proud of. The multi-cultural production stars actors from Canada and South Africa. Ghosts haunt a man and a women, continents apart, as they are drawn together to discover the secrets of their past. The production is filled with music, dance and a number of different languages. After its run at WCT, UBUNTU (The Cape Town Project) will tour to the Firehall Arts Centre in Vancouver and to Theatre Calgary.

To end the subscription season we go back to The Pavilion Theatre with a MUSICAL! The 25th Annual Putnum County Spelling Bee by William Finn and Rachel Sheinkin, is a charming, clever and sweet-natured musical comedy about six precocious, quirky and neurotic children competing for the title of spelling bee champ. WCT will partner with TRU and feature some TRU drama students in the cast – a fantastic training opportunity! Plus, each night 4 members of the audience get to compete to be the Spelling Bee champ!!

These seven exciting productions make up WCT’s 2011 – 2012 subscription season. However, there is one extra surprise. In the fall of 2011, WCT is partnering with the Kamloops Convention Centre to present Mitch Albom’s Tuesdays with Morrie, starring Jamie Farr (Corporal Klinger from TV’s M*A*S*H)! This show is not a part of the season subscription, but subscribers get first crack at getting their tickets until June 18, 2011.

We hope you’ll join us for this very exciting season of theatre!

For more information contact Dusan Magdolen at 250-372-3216.

6 Records Broken at Canadian Masters Athletics Championship

The Canadian Masters Indoor Athletics Championships was held in Kamloops March 19 - 20, 2011. This great event had athletes performing at their very best. Click the link to read more about the 6 broken records!

Tourism BC Announces new online Tourism Industry Resources

As part of the Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Investment, Tourism BC’s mandate is to support and promote the business of tourism throughout the province. Tourism BC is structured to develop and deliver programs and services that attract visitors to British Columbia and help ensure that the quality of their vacation experience keeps them coming back for more. In partnership with Thompson Okanagan Tourism, we work closely with communities in your region.

Tourism BC has a number of NEW resources available to assist tourism operators, communities and sectors in growing and developing their businesses. Explore the collection of tools by clicking the following link to the new Tourism Industry Resource area of the Tourism BC website: www.tti.gov.bc.ca/industryresources. We aim to continue to grow this resource so watch for updates on new content.

As our partners in community tourism, we encourage you to visit the site above and provide any feedback/suggestions you might have. Secondly we require your assistance to share this information with your community tourism stakeholders in two ways:

1) Include a link to this new site on the industry portion of your community tourism website, if you have one (not the consumer section)

2) Include this information in an upcoming newsletter/email to your stakeholders.

Thank you in advance for your assistance. We look forward to continuing our work with you.

Laura Plant
Manager, Community Partnerships
Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Investment
Tourism British Columbia
Ph: 604-660-3754
E: laura.plant@gov.bc.ca

www.tti.gov.bc.ca/industryprograms

Simone Carlysle-Smith
Community Development Specialist
Thompson Okanagan Tourism
2280 "D" Leckie Road
Kelowna, BC V1X 6G6
P: 250 860 5999 Ext. 214
F: 250 860 9993
E: community@totabc.com
www.totabc.org
Community Development TOTA Web:
www.totabc.org/trellis/commdev

2010 Accommodation Tax Revenue in Kamloops up 15.6% over 2009

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting a 15.6% increase in overall accommodation tax revenues for 2010 over 2009 numbers.

The latest accommodation tax revenue report for December has just been released and when calculated into the year’s total, Kamloops has seen a 15.6% increase over the same period in 2009.

Tourism Kamloops attributes this increase in part to an economic recovery, sport tourism, the contribution of Rocky Mountaineer numbers and tactical marketing by Tourism Kamloops to our target markets.

“These numbers are strong and are above averages being reported in other areas of the province.” says Lee Morris, CEO. “We are forecasting increased growth for 2011.”

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Howard Grieve
Manager, marketing and communications
TOURISM KAMLOOPS
howard@tourismkamloops.com
www.tourismkamloops.com

Canadian Tour Event Lands in Kamloops for 2011

The quality and variety of Kamloops’ golf courses has attracted the attention of the Canadian Tour and for 2011, Kamloops will host the second BC stop on the tour June 6 – 12 at Rivershore Estates and Golf Links. The Canadian Tournaments Players Association is the governing body of the Canadian Tour and operates a series of tournaments in Canada, the United States and Latin America. The association represents more than 200 members from around the world. The Western Championship is a new event that will be a natural fit for the Canadian Tour scheduled between the Times Colonists Islands Savings Open in Victoria, BC and the Syncrude Boreal Open in Fort McMurray, Alberta. Hosted at one of the finest tests of golf in Canada, the Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed Rivershore Estates and Golf Links will certainly continue to impress upon visitors, locals and avid golfers that Kamloops is undeniably Canada’s hottest golf destination. Don Brett Davies, Director of Operations/General Manager of Rivershore Estates and Golf Links expressed excitement at the opportunity to host this first ever Canadian Tour event in Kamloops. “The hosting of this event will further enhance Kamloops’ prime position as a golf destination, noted Lee Morris, CEO Tourism Kamloops. The event also provides Kamloops golf enthusiasts significant opportunities to engage in the staging of the event and support the game of golf.” The tour will attract both Canadian and International golfers representing some of the top PGA TOUR prospects from more than twenty countries. A Canadian Tour event also brings an economic impact into the local communities of $1 million each year as calculated by the Canadian Sport Tourism Economic Assessment Model (STEAM). For More Information: Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247 E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Sun Rivers Honored with National Community Development Award

Sun Rivers Development Corporation was honoured with the National Community Development Award this weekend at the annual National Canadian Home Builders Association Awards of Excellence in Banff Alberta.

The SAM awards are presented annually by the National Association to celebrate excellence in new homes and renovation design, innovative technology and construction techniques, outstanding presentation, and marketing activities across the country.

The Community Development Award recognizes excellence in performance by members who create attractive, exciting, innovative and environmentally responsible communities.

Entries were judged on: Community Vision, Architectural Features, Recreation, Safety and Quality of Life Features.

“Being judged against some of the best developments and communities in the country is truly an honour and a mark of distinction. Receiving this award means the Sun Rivers Community has been deemed to be among the best in the country”, says Leslie Brochu Sun Rivers Vice-President of Marketing. “We are all very proud of this recognition. This award clearly recognizes the vision and sense of community that we have been striving for in the Sun Rivers master plan and the commitment and dedication of each one of our team members as they work each day to create a great community for those who choose the Sun Rivers lifestyle.”

Sun Rivers is situated on a spectacular 460-acre site overlooking the City of Kamloops and Thompson Valley. Sun Rivers Golf Resort Community will ultimately consist of 2000 homes integrated around a championship golf course set against the stunning backdrop of Mounts Peter and Paul. A resort hotel, village centre, community amenities, unique geothermal technology and practical innovations in water conservation make Sun Rivers one of the premier master planned communities in which to live..

To understand Sun Rivers is to see it - not simply as a housing community, restaurant or a golf course… but as a lifestyle community where people come for the entire experience it offers. Sun Rivers – Creating Community.

Contact: Leslie Brochu,
Vice-President
250-828-9989

World’s Fastest Skiers Compete in Subaru Velocity Challenge and FIS Speed Ski World Cup

Sun Peaks, BC (February 23, 2011) – There won’t be any speeding tickets handed out as 40 of the fastest skiers on the planet reach speeds in excess of 175 km/h at the 2011 Subaru Velocity Challenge at Sun Peaks Resort. North America’s only speed skiing event rockets ahead March 3 to 6 with support of Subaru Canada and Zimmer Autosport.

“This event was started 22 years ago by six guys with shovels wanting to speed ski and now it’s one of the best events in the world,” said Event Organizer Adam Earle. “Having racers come from around the globe to compete at Sun Peaks is a true testament to the event and the support it receives from the locals, volunteers, businesses and beyond. It’s the highlight of the ski season for people from around the world.

With Subaru Canada and Zimmer Autosport backing the event for the fourth year, and the race celebrating its 22nd anniversary, organizers expect to see more interest both locally and internationally.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be involved with the Velocity Challenge for a fourth year,” said Rob Zimmer, president of Zimmer Autosport. “We’re fortunate to have such a fantastic facility to host this world-class event and are excited to showcase our athletes and to support our community and its events.”

An official FIS World Cup race for the 9th year, racers from nine countries will compete at the 2011 event.

“We start preparing the Headwalls course over a month before the race is held, building up the start and finish areas, using snow fence to collect extra snow on to the course, and finally using a Pisten Bulley winch-cat,” outlined Jamie Tattersfield, mountain operations manager for Sun Peaks Resort Corporation. “It’s a steep and challenging course with an average grade of 55 percent that requires special attention from the most experienced members of our grooming team.”

The steep and treacherous Headwalls Speed Track also includes several rolls that will likely cause racers to become airborne during their controlled free-fall descent, creating some exciting moments for those watching the race.

“The Headwalls Speed Ski Track is considered one of the most difficult speed ski tracks in the world and it’s always a wild ride at 175 km/h. Headwalls is convex, meaning you can’t see the bottom from the top which raises a lot of eyebrows, even with the world’s best racers,” said Earle. “Imagine a ski racer wearing a Darth Vader-like helmet, a bright red ski-tight rubber suit and 240 centimetre long skis flying past you. Combine that with the sound the racers make as they cut through the air like a fighter jet and it becomes a spectacle not to be missed.”

The race may be viewed from the Sunburst Restaurant at mid-mountain and accessed by the Sunburst Express Chairlift. Specially priced foot passenger tickets are available for this unique event and are only $12.00 per person/day.

WestJet Schedule Change - Good for Business!

Article as seen in the Kamloops Daily News - January 27th

The days of afternoon WestJet flights in and out of Kamloops are numbered as the air carrier offers morning departures and evening arrivals beginning May 2.

Flights will depart Kamloops at 7 a.m. and land in Calgary at 8:55 a.m Alberta time. Return flights leave Calgary at 7:35 p.m. and arrive in Kamloops at the same time B.C. time, WestJet spokesman Robert Palmer said Wednesday.

He said a desire to offer better connections for business and leisure travellers inspired the move away from afternoon departures and arrivals.

Flights currently depart Kamloops at 1:45 p.m. and land in Calgary at 3:45 p.m. Flights into Kamloops from Calgary land at 1:07 p.m.

By arriving in Calgary in the morning, travellers can quickly hop flights to Palm Springs, San Francisco and Phoenix. Palmer said the change is also good for those in business.

"If you have a meeting in Calgary you can be downtown by 10 a.m.," he said.

That's welcome news to Kamloops Airport Society president John O'Fee, who said the new schedule will be ideal for those who need to attend an afternoon meeting and be back the same day.

When it comes to travelling for fun, people prefer to leave for a destination in the morning and return at night. He said the new times cater to that.

"That's fantastic from a travel standpoint. Midday is always a tough time to leave," said O'Fee. "It's about giving people options and trying to grow the number of passengers that we have."

Airport manager Fred Legace said the change will open up business travel to Kamloops and help people connect to more flights out of Calgary.

"I'm hoping for good things," he said.

The Fun Factor Family Fun Centre Announces Newest Attraction

The Fun Factor Family Fun Centre's newest attraaction is well under construction. The long time (20 year) Kamloops North Shore business is providing their confidence in the Kamloops economy by expanding their offerings and helping families as well as tourists enjoy affordable active entertainment.

March 5th, the Pirate Adventure indoor mini-golf attractions will be open to the public. Very unique to BC, this 3-D adventure is fully themed and carries a continual "Pirate Adventure" storyline throughout the round of golf.

Arthur Loring, GM of The Fun Factor Family Centre said, "We are extremely excited for this attraction as it will be the only one in Western Canada that features interactive holes (ball goes in a hole, interactive feature happens) that is so completely well themed - It will be an attraction on its own just as a walk through! This new indoor mini-golf experience is not only ideal for kids but adults and grandparents too!"

Investing in the community and maintaining affordability for families are two very key aspects to their business. They will be running a contest with schools and groups within this community not only to be the first to try out the attraction but to win a fantastic fundraising opportunity.

"This exciting new venue at the Fun Factor provides a fresh entertainment option for all of Kamloops and especially for the North Shore," exclaims Peter Mutrie of the North Shore Business Improvement Association, "it offers more things to do for those visiting the tournament facilities on McArthur Island and in the tournament capital."

The Fun Factor, Kamloops Largest Fun Centre, is a proven community leader when it comes to family entertainment concepts and easy birthday party solutions. Continuing to feature their popular laser tag arena, family friendly ticket games and the new mini-golf attraction, the Fun Factor builds on their commitment to be the Birthday Party Headquarters in the Tournament Capital. More detials and conceptual photos are available at the link provided.

For more information, contact: Arthur Loring, GM
E: info@thefunfactor.ca
P: 250-554-3111

Wine & Dine 2011 Back in Kamloops

This great event is back in Kamloops. Wine & Dine is a promotion that offers visitors a special 3-course dinner menu for $15, $25 or $35 (excluding tax and gratuity) at participating restaurants. Meals feature fabulous wine pairing suggestions (wine not included in the price).

Kamloops to be highlighted on Global's Small Town Feature

Kamloops will be highlighted in Global News Small Town Feature this coming Saturday morning (Jan. 15th) from 7-10am on Global BC's Saturday Morning News. Anyone is welcome to send in one photo each of the Kamloops area and community to this address: weekendnews@globaltv.com.

Sun Peaks Ranked with the Best in the World in recent Condé Nast Magazine Poll

Sun Peaks, BC (December 21, 2010) – Sun Peaks Resort continues to stand up with the best resorts in the world after a top 20 ranking in one of the world’s leading travel publications. Condé Nast Traveler’s 2010 Ski Poll ranks Sun Peaks as the 2nd best ski resort in Canada, and 13th best in North America.

Close to 26,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers voted in this 15th Annual Ski Poll.

Resorts were judged on terrain and conditions, lifts and lines, après-ski/activities, dining and local ambiance. Sun Peaks was one of three Canadian resorts to make the Top 20: Whistler Blackcomb (#1), Sun Peaks (#13), and Mont Tremblant (#14 tie).

“Sun Peaks is honoured to be recognized with Whistler as the leading destinations in Canada,” says Christopher Nicolson, President of Tourism Sun Peaks. “The resort is known for it’s village design, reliable snow and expansive terrain spread over three mountains. But perhaps more importantly, visitors pick up on the genuine sense of welcome and hospitality of residents.”

Sun Peaks became Canada’s first Mountain Resort Municipality in June 2010.

Sun Peaks has consistently been rated as one of the top resorts in North America, this being the third year in a row that the resort has been in the top 20 in Condé Nast’s annual ski poll. Sun Peaks also has received recent accolades from Westworld Magazine, declaring Sun Peaks the Top BC Winter Day Trip during the Winter Festival of Wine. Cadogan Guides in the United Kingdom also named Sun Peaks as the Best Family Resort in 2008.

About Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks Resort is a four season destination resort located in the interior of British Columbia near Kamloops. Recently declared the 2nd Best Ski Resort in Canada and 10th Best in North America by Condé Nast Traveller Magazine readers, Sun Peaks has three mountains which surround an intimate ski-in, ski-out village. In other seasons, Sun Peaks offers a diverse range of leisure activities including 18 holes of golf as well as numerous events and festivals. Sun Peaks Resort was the first ski resort in North America and is the only resort in Canada to receive the ISO 14001 designation recognizing the resorts environmental policies and practices. Sun Peaks can be accessed by two airport gateways - Kamloops (45 minutes) and Kelowna (2 1/2 hours) and by car, only a 4 ¼ hour drive separates Sun Peaks and Vancouver, B.C.

For further information please contact:
Christopher Nicolson
President
Tourism Sun Peaks
Direct: 250-578-5381
Email: tsppresident@sunpeaksresort.com

2010 Accommodation Revenue Maintains Momentum in Kamloops

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting an increase in overall accommodation revenues for 2010 up to September 30th.

Latest revenue reports for September overnight stays in Kamloops combined with January through August numbers show an overall 13.9% increase over the same period in 2009. Tourism Kamloops attributes this increase in part to an economic recovery, sport tourism, the strength of tourism products and tactical marketing to the lower mainland region.

“Kamloops continues to show a strong recovery over 2009 numbers.” says Lee Morris, CEO. “Targeting close in markets has been a key to growth by taking advantage of Kamloops’ proximity to metro Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton. People are still taking golf vacations, family leisure getaways and participating in sports tournaments and Kamloops has strong product in all three areas.”

Fall and winter advertising campaigns for 2010 have been completed that targeted key areas in greater Vancouver and the region. A strong salmon run coupled with mild sunny weather in October has Tourism Kamloops optimistic that accommodation revenues will continue to show sustained growth through to year end.

For More Information:

Ms. Lee Morris CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Howard Grieve
Manager, marketing and communications
TOURISM KAMLOOPS
howard@tourismkamloops.com
www.tourismkamloops.com
250-372-8000
1-866-372-8081

Wildlights 2010 at the BC Wildlife Park

The BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops is about to launch its 13th annual Wildlights Celebration. The highlight of this year’s event will once again be the “Symphony of Lights Show” which will feature a spectacular display of “Family Fireworks” and Lights synchronized to music nightly at 8:00 pm in our award winning outdoor Highland Valley Copper Amphitheatre. This year’s event will include over 600,000 lights and 360 rope light sculptures. Visitors will have lots of activities to enjoy as they can dare to challenge the new and larger Giant Maze, or take a trip around the park on the Wildlife Express miniature train. Then take a Wagon Ride from the new Home Hardware “Double H Corral”, where you can enjoy getting up-close and personal with our farm animals, and don’t forget to take in the nightly Wolf Feedings. Visitors young and old will be entertained by Uncle Chris the Clown nightly or simply take a leisurely stroll around the Park to see all the dazzling lights and light displays. Finally you can sit back, relax and sip hot chocolate around crackling campfires. The Kamloops Transit System will once again be running a special Wildlights Express bus service that will leave and return to the Lansdowne Village Transit Exchange to the Park Entrance during our event. All bus riders receive $2.00 off the regular admission to the Park. There would not be a Wildlights event without the generous support of the whole community, from individual volunteers; to businesses; to sponsors. Wildlights is about people working together to produce something unique to our region. It takes a lot of hands, time, and plenty of resources to make an event such as this happen. Everyone connected to the Wildlife Park from staff, board members, and volunteers are proud to host an event that is now viewed as a local family tradition. Word has spread and now Wildlights is enjoyed by friends, relatives and tourists from around the world. The festival dates back to 1998, and since then, over 270,000 guests have marvelled at our dazzling show. This year, the festival runs nightly from December 10, 2010 to January 2, 2011, every day except Christmas Day with operating hours from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Admission rates are $10.00 for adults, senior and youth (ages 13-16) are $9.00, Children (ages 3-12) are $7.00 and children two and under are free. The British Columbia Wildlife Park is located 15 minutes east of Kamloops on the Trans Canada Highway, and take exit 390 or 391. For more information please call 250-573-3242 or visit our web site at www.BCzoo.org.

Local Kids Shine in Christmas Carol!

Western Canada Theatre’s magical family production of A Christmas Carol adapted by Jeremy Tow previews on Thursday November 25, with its official opening on Saturday November 27. The production features six incredible Kamloops kids. Jake, Rosa, CJ, Kayla, Emma & Sebastian are thrilled to have an opportunity that most children would dream of: to star in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol alongside amazing seasoned professionals. The buzz is that they are the heart of the show, inspiring their fellow actors with their energy and enthusiasm. There is a lot of song and laughter coming out of the rehearsal hall. Jake Kopytko is a South Kamloops Secondary School student and a Kamloops Heritage Railway regular, having performed on their Christmas and Ghost trains. He takes voice lessons with Tina Moore and you may have seen him in the Genesis Salon commercial. Jake is playing Peter, Young Cratchit and Young Scrooge #1 in WCT’s production. Rosa Marks is in fifth grade at Beattie School of the Arts. She moved here from London, England last year where she studied at the Deborah Day Stage School, performing in their production of The Wiz. She also made her operatic debut in La bohème. Rosa is playing Poor Girl. CJ Ruekl plays James, Ignorance and Dick Wilkins. He is a grade eight student at Beattie School of the Arts and is majoring in drama. He has preformed in numerous KISSM productions. Kayla Sorley is not only an actor, but a dedicated singer, dancer and Westsyde Secondary student. She has performed in three of their latest productions and won their top grade 8, 9 and 10 theatre award as well as the Jessica Cook Memorial Rising Star Award. Kayla was last seen on the Sagebrush stage as an elf in WCT’s production of Dear Santa (2004). Kayla is playing Belinda and Young Fan. Emma and Sebastian Tow are performing in A Christmas Carol adapted by their father Jeremy Tow, and acting alongside their mother, Anita Wittenberg. Sebastian makes his stage debut as Tiny Tim, though he was the voice of Jimmy in last season’s The Miracle Worker. Emma acted in Chemainus Theatre Festival’s A Miracle on 34th Street and stared alongside her mom in the film The Diary. Emma will be playing Mary, Want and her violin in A Christmas Carol. Both Emma and Sebastian attend Beattie School of the Arts; Emma is in grade seven and Sebastian is in grade three. This talented group of children is going to astonish in this musical, magical and fun-filled adaptation. Get your tickets now and come experience, live, Christmas spirit that will warm your heart. Bring the whole family! Tickets are available from Kamloops Live Box Office at 250-374-LIVE (5483), kamloopslive.com & 1025 Lorne Street For more information, contact Dušan Magdolen at 250-372-3216 Jake Kopytko Rosa Marks CJ Ruekl Kayla Sorley Emma Tow Sebastian

Sun Peaks Resort wants to put you on film!

Sun Peaks, BC (November 17, 2010) – Sun Peaks Resort is excited to announce the sequel to its successful Snow Bum competition last year, Snow Bum 2: The Snapshot. Aspiring snow bums from around the world are invited to take a one-of-a-kind picture that shows off their enthusiasm for winter – a ‘casting’ photo if you will. The prize for best photo - a trip to Sun Peaks for the winner, where a renowned videographer will accompany them onto the slopes to film their very own exclusive winter-themed video! Kevin Hagell from Kaizen Visuals will spend a day with you and your friends, filming everything from shredding through epic powder, making that huge jump off the slopes, or chilling out at après. Kaizen Visuals produced the Sun Peaks Promotional Winter Video. This is a once –in-a-lifetime chance for a lucky person to have their love of winter captured on video by a film producer. The winner and their friends will stay six nights at one of Sun Peaks’ exclusive resort properties. There will also be secondary prize for most popular (most-voted for) photo as contestants will be rewarded based on how many votes they get on their photo, by promoting their entry through social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. “Since Snow Bum was such a success last year, we wanted this year’s contest to be even more accessible to participants across the globe,” explains Christopher Nicolson, President of Tourism Sun Peaks. “A picture is worth a thousand words, and having people show us why they love winter through their lenses is a great way to celebrate the snow season. We anticipate lots of creative and unique shots will be shared with the world.” Snow Bum hopefuls can enter the contest online by uploading a unique picture that shows off their passion for winter directly onto the Snow Bum website, www.snowbumcanada.com. All entrants are encouraged to capture their fun side by being as creative as possible while incorporating country or city landmarks into their shots and the essence of winter before sharing their image online with all of their friends. A Snow Bum logo will be available online for optional inclusion into any photo that is submitted. Photos must be uploaded onto www.snowbumcanada.com by Sunday, February 20, 2011. Sun Peak’s panel of judges will award the “Most Votes Winner” on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 and the Top 20 Finalists will be announced on Tuesday, February 22, 2011 as well. The grand prize winner of “The Snapshot” will be announced on March 1st, 2011 for prize redemption between March and April 2011 (end of winter season). Contestants must have an applicable visa for the duration of their stay if required. Contestants under the age of 19 must bring a parent or guardian on their trip to Sun Peaks Resort. For official contest rules visit www.snowbumcanada.com.

Project X Theatre Productions Annual General Meeting

Project X Theatre hereby gives notice of our 2010 Annual General Meeting. Sunday, November 28, 2010 1:00pm – Pavilion Theatre 1025 Lorne Street Come and meet the team behind the company and become a member. If you are looking for a good cause to share some of your time with, we are also seeking new executive board members and board directors. Perhaps Project X is the volunteer opportunity you’ve been seeking? Come and be a part of a dynamic, creative group of people. Membership for Project X Theatre Productions Society is $10. You do not have to be a member to attend the AGM, but you must be a member to vote. For more information, contact Derek at 250-682-9055 or info@projectxtheatre.ca

BC's Best Young Hockey Players to Come to Kamloops

Kamloops, BC - BC Hockey has announced that Kamloops has been selected as the host site for the 2011 Male Under 16 BC Cup. The Male U16 BC Cup will be held April 27 - May 1, 2011 at Interior Savings Centre. "This is another great event to add to Kamloops' roster of tournaments," said Kamloops Mayor Peter Milobar. "This event will attract numerous scouts and families in addition to the teams, and we are very excited to be the host city." The BC Hockey Male High Performance Program has been designed to instruct and prepare the players for future opportunities in the High Performance Program. The Male Under 16 BC Cup will host the most talented 15-year-old players in BC, and prepare the players for the next step in their developmental process. Open tryouts will occur from April 1 - 3, 2011 in eight designated zones throughout the Branch. The players will be evaluated, and ten teams will be selected following these tryouts to compete in the 2011 Male U16 BC Cup. Some notable alumni of the Male U16 BC Cup include: Joe Sakic of the Colorado Avalanche (Team Lower Mainland 1985) Shawn Horcoff of the Edmonton Oilers (Team Kootenay 1994) Dan Hamhuis of the Nashville Predators (Team North 1999) Duncan Keith of the Chicago Blackhawks (Team Okanagan 2000) Brent Seabrook of the Chicago Blackhawks (Team Greater Vancouver 2001) Players attending the Male U16 BC Cup will be eligible to participate in the Western Branch Challenge presented by the WHL. Details for the Western Branch Challenge will be announced at a later date. For more information about BC Hockey, please visit the BC Hockey website at www.bchockey.net or email info@bchockey.net. Media Contact: Sean Orr, Coordinator, Communications and Events BC Hockey 250-652-2978 sorr@bchockey.net

First BC Interior Resort Opens Saturday for the Winter Season

November 17, 2010 – Sun Peaks, BC – The lifts start turning at Sun Peaks this Saturday, making it the first resort in the BC Interior to open for the Winter 2010-11 season. Three chairlifts at Sun Peaks will open with limited top-to-bottom skiing on Saturday, November 20, 2010. The Crystal, Sunburst and Elevation Chairlifts will be open at 9:00am for skiing and riding on a selection of terrain for all abilities, including Spillway, The Other Way, Crystal Run, and Five Mile. Close to 40cm of fresh powder has fallen at Sun Peaks Resort in the last 7 days, with over 20cm of that in the last 48 hours. Snow is continuing to fall and EnviroBC is forecasting another 20cm in the next 24 hours. Lift tickets for adults will be $50.00 per person with the limited opening on Saturday. With additional snow in the forecast, more terrain will open as conditions allow and the lift ticket prices will adjust accordingly. Mountain Operations crews are also working to have limited Nordic terrain open on Saturday as well. Further details on that will be released as they become available. Winter has officially arrived at Sun Peaks Resort, so grab your skis or board and get set for a fantastic season on the slopes.

Kamloops Airport receives B.C. Aviation Council Award

- Article as seen in the Kamloops This Week -

Kamloops Airport came away with some hardware at last week’s B.C. Aviation Council’s Silver Wings Award Banquet in Richmond.

John O’Fee, city councillor and president of the Kamloops Airport Authority Society, was on hand to accept the William Templeton Trophy, awarded annually for outstanding initiative and achievement in the successful development of a community airport, regional airport, heliport or floatplane landing facility by an individual, association, municipal government or company.

Kamloops Airport received this award due to the $25-million investment in improvements to the airport terminal, runway expansion project and navigation aids.

“I was honoured to attend the banquet and accept this award,” O’Fee said. “Our investment in the airport has been recognized by peers across the aviation industry.”

Communities In Bloom 16th Edition

Communities in Bloom is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification through community involvement and the challenge of a national program, with focus on the promotion of green spaces in community settings. Click on the link provided to see the list of National Award Winners in each of the categories.

16th Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally Announcement

We are pleased to announce the next destination for the Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally. The Rally will be held in Kamloops, British Columbia, from August 25 to 27, 2011. Known as B.C.’s friendliest city, Kamloops has a vast, rugged landscape which showcases a variety of terrain, from silt bluffs to rolling hills, and an unbelievable panoramic view of mountain ranges that will attract riders from all over North America. Kamloops offers great riding destinations, plenty of accommodations, and a welcoming local community. With strong support from the local Harley-Davidson® Retail Store, Kamloops Harley-Davidson®, we are very excited to bring the H.O.G.® family to Kamloops.

The Kamloops Towne Lodge has been selected as the host hotel. A special H.O.G.® member rate of $119 per night is available at the host hotel. There are a limited number of rooms available, so call today to reserve your room, and mention that you are with the Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally.

Kamloops Towne Lodge
1250 Rogers Way
Kamloops, BC
V1S 1N5
250-828-6660

We are excited about providing another opportunity for Harley-Davidson® owners to come together and see old friends, make new ones, and share their passion for riding Harley-Davidson® motorcycles with other like-minded people. For visitors outside of the Rally region, we welcome you to travel to this unique and beautiful destination, to see incredible sights along the way, and to enjoy the journey. For those who live in the Rally region, take advantage of showcasing Super, Natural British Columbia, and map out routes and stops to help your visiting friends make the most of their time.

Please check the members.hog.com website in January for regularly updated information on the Canadian National H.O.G.® Rally as it becomes available. We hope to see you in Kamloops, British Columbia!

Sincerely,

Harley-Davidson Owners Group® of Canada
Per: Gina McNeil
Manager, Enthusiast Services

First Snow Blankets the Sun Peaks Village

Sun Peaks, BC (October 15, 2010) – The Sun Peaks Village is covered in white this morning with the first snowfall of the season at the resort.

Sun Peaks’ locals are buzzing with excitement after 12.23 centimetres of fresh snow fell at mid-mountain over the last 12 hours.

With cooler temperatures in the forecast, mountain operations crews hope to begin making snow over the next couple of days in preparation for the arrival of the Austrian Women’s Ski Team in mid-November.

Opening day for the public at Sun Peaks Resort is scheduled for Saturday, November 20.

For further information please contact:
Melanie Simmons
Media Relations & Communications Specialist
Tourism Sun Peaks
Direct: 250-578-5387
Email: tspmedia@sunpeaksresort.com

Canada’s Hottest New Golf Market Gets Hotter

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops has a new selling feature to bolster its 2011 Golf Marketing strategies. The Kamloops Golf and Country Club has completed a major upgrade to the course and have just announced they are joining ranks with the Golf Kamloops marketing consortium.

Completely renovated and re-opened on August 1st, the 18-hole par 72 championship course has become the ‘oldest, yet newest’ golf course in the Kamloops area. The Kamloops Golf and Country Club was established in 1914 and has been at its present location since 1952. The course has been completely redesigned incorporating generous, gently undulating bent grass fairways lined with mature trees and is characterized by its easy walking, park-like setting. Renewed investment in the Kamloops Golf and Country Club naturally led to discussions on increased marketing and joining the Golf Kamloops consortium is a significant leap forward in this area with just one step.

The Golf Kamloops marketing consortium includes Tobiano, Sun Rivers, Rivershore, The Dunes, Sun Peaks, Talking Rock and, after more than a decade of success, they now welcome their newest partner. “Our region continues to see annual growth over other BC golf destinations, and with the addition of Kamloops Golf and Country Club, we have once again strengthened our region’s position as BC’s most accessible and awarded golf destination.” says Miles Mortensen, Director of Golf, Tobiano and current President of Golf Kamloops. “Kamloops is the most talked of golf destination in BC.”

Tourism Kamloops and Golf Kamloops enjoy a close relationship while working together on many coordinated efforts to raise awareness and increase rounds on the Kamloops area golf courses. “The Golf Kamloops consortium is a very strong and effective partner with Tourism Kamloops.” states Lee Morris, CEO. “The combined efforts of both have kept Kamloops in a leading position as a destination of choice for golf enthusiasts.”

Tourism Kamloops website can be found at www.tourismkamloops.com, mobile website at m.tourismkamloops.com and the I-Phone App can be downloaded for free from the Apple store. Print collateral can be accessed through the Kamloops Visitor Centre.

For More Information:

Ms. Lee Morris CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Miles Mortensen
Director of Golf, Tobiano
President, Golf Kamloops
direct: 250.434.7464
cell: 250.851.1731
miles@tobianogolf.com

Stuart Lefroy, Acting Representative
Kamloops Golf and Country Club
P: 250.376.8020

Kamloops July Accommodation Revenue up 14.5%

Kamloops’ July Accommodation Revenue up 14.5% over 2009

Kamloops, BC: Tourism Kamloops is reporting an increase in overall accommodation revenues for the first seven months of 2010 including new July figures.

Latest revenue reports for July overnight stays in Kamloops show a 14.5% increase over the same period in 2009. Tourism Kamloops attributes this increase in part to an economic recovery, sport tourism, the strength of Kamloops’ golf and other tourism products and tactical marketing to the lower mainland region.

“These numbers are very encouraging as we have been seeing substantial increases in the visits to our website and in the distribution of our print collateral.” says Lee Morris, CEO. “The ultimate goal of our marketing efforts is to see this increase in overnight stay conversion.”

Tourism Kamloops website can be found at www.tourismkamloops.com, mobile website at m.tourismkamloops.com and the I-Phone App can be downloaded for free from the Apple store. Print collateral can be accessed through the Kamloops Visitor Centre.

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO
Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Howard Grieve
Manager, marketing and communications
Tourism Kamloops
howard@tourismkamloops.com
www.tourismkamloops.com
250-372-8000
1-866-372-8081

TNRD Wins Provincial Award for Environmental Initiative

For Immediate Release (Sept. 29/10): The Thompson-Nicola Regional District is the proud recipient of a 2010 Union of British Columbia Municipalities Excellence Award. The TNRD won in the Leadership & Innovation category for its Passive Landfill Gas Oxidation System initiative.

Partnering with the Alberta Innovates – Technology Futures, an innovative, cost effective, environmentally sound method of passively treating landfill gas emissions at closed landfills has been developed.

“The TNRD is honoured to have been selected as the recipient of the Leadership & Innovation Award amongst such stiff competition from around the province,” said TNRD chair Peter Milobar. “We hope this award helps show the public the TNRD's ongoing commitment towards environmental sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint."

The passive landfill gas management system uses methane oxidizing (methanotropic) bacteria found naturally in organic material such as compost to metabolize methane, the major constituent of landfill gas. The TNRD has been testing the technology since 2009 at the Barriere and Lower Nicola landfills. Once the landfills are closed and capped, then the Passive Landfill Gas Oxidation System will be put into real-time use.

“We’ve done a lot of testing and so far the results have been extremely positive,” said Peter Hughes, director of Environmental Services. “This will provide a very cost effective means to manage impacts of landfill gas from small landfills.”

Ashcroft director Andy Anderson accepted the award on behalf of the TNRD Thursday morning in Whistler at the annual UBCM Annual Conference. Anderson is also the chair of the TNRD’s Solid Waste Committee.

The passive landfill gas oxidation system at a landfill is initiated by finding “hot spots” on the landfill surface where landfill gas is escaping.

“When hot spots are located these positions are marked for potential construction of oxidation beds,” said Don May, manager of Environmental Health Services. “The oxidation beds are constructed by placing a filter layer of permeable material such as drain rock over the hot spot to distribute the landfill gas through the oxidation bed.”

The filter layer is then covered with about one metre of compost, and the bed may be enclosed in a wooden framework or dug in the landfill surface. As the landfill gas permeates up through the compost the methane is digested as food by methanotropic bacteria. Up to 100 per cent of the methane can be removed in this manner and in practice values in excess of 90 per cent have been measured so far at the sites.

The TNRD has been working in partnership with Alberta Innovates (formerly the Alberta Research Council) to develop methane oxidation technology for small rural landfill application under a grant from the Green Municipal Fund and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

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For more information contact:
Don May, manager of Environmental Health Services – 250-377-7057– dmay@tnrd.bc.ca or Peter Hughes, director of Environmental Services – 250-377-7053 – phughes@tnrd.bc.ca

The TNRD covers 11 municipalities (Ashcroft, Barriere, Cache Creek, Chase, Clearwater, Clinton, Kamloops, Logan Lake, Lytton, Merritt and Sun Peaks) and provides over 115 services including planning and building inspection, emergency preparedness and 9-1-1 services, recreation, utilities, television rebroadcasting, river buoys, transit, tourism, economic development, environmental health services, library services and operates a film commission.

Additional Air Canada Flights to Kamloops

Kamloops Airport is pleased to announce that Air Canada will add additional flights over the winter months to Vancouver. This route will grow from the existing 5 flights per day to 7 flights per day with all flights operated by Jazz.

On October 31 an additional flight will be added to bring to 6, the total number of daily flights to Vancouver. This will match the 2009/10 winter season capacity. On January 3, 2011, a further additional Vancouver flight will be added.

This additional capacity will meet demand for international travelers to make better connections to and from Kamloops. The majority of the growth of the route during the winter months is being generated by additional ski vacation travel. Sun Peaks is continuing to grow in international stature and is attracting people from around the world.

”Air Canada is pleased to add additional flights between Kamloops and Vancouver to meet expected demand this winter,” said Marcel Forget, Vice President, Network Planning and Scheduling. “Our flights have been timed to offer convenient connections in Vancouver to and from our international and North America destinations.”

“Air Canada continues to be a vital partner to Sun Peaks Resort and Kamloops,” said Christopher Nicolson, President, Tourism Sun Peaks. “Over 35% of our Sun Peaks' overnight guests use air travel to access Sun Peaks, and Air Canada carries the majority of them. In fact, initial indications show strong Australia and New Zealand bookings for Sun Peaks in this post-Olympic year.”

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Kamloops Airport Ltd. (KAL) is a subsidiary of Vancouver Airport Services. Our mission is to serve the Kamloops community and trading area of the BC Interior by providing airport facilities that are safe, clean, efficient, profitable, friendly and that reflect a local sense of place.

If you require additional information please contact:

Fred Legace, Managing Director
Kamloops Airport Ltd.
Tel. (250) 376-3613

Angela Mah, Corporate Communications
Air Canada
Tel (604) 270-5741

Christopher Nicolson, President
Tourism Sun Peaks
Tel (250) 578-5381

Vancouver Whitecaps Set To Make Annual Visit

KAMLOOPS, BC --- Coaches and players from the Vancouver Whitecaps FC will be in Kamloops on Sunday (September 26) to conduct their annual Wendy’s-sponsored soccer clinic at Hillside Stadium.

The clinic runs from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

The free clinic, which filled up a week ago, is for boys and girls in the U-8, U-9 and U-10 divisions.

Two-hundred Kamloops Youth Soccer Association players have already signed up for the clinic, which will feature demonstrations by the Whitecaps’ players, a coaching session led by Whitecaps’ staff coaches, prize draws and a “World Cup Style” mini-tournament.

There is already a a long waiting list of players hoping to take part in the clinic.

Contacts:
KYSA Executive Director – Keith Liddiard, 250-376-2750.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC – Community Soccer Systems Manager, 604.929-0445

KAMLOOPS SYMPHONY 2010-2011 Season

Now is the time to take advantage of a 10% discount on subscription tickets for the season. On October 2nd, the main series begins. Then, on October 7th, we present the first performance in our chamber music pianist Anton Kuerti performing with Germany's Jacques Thibaud Trio - and thats just the beginning!

Over the course of the coming season, Kamloops Symphony musicians and special guest artists will be performing 15 different programs for Kamloops audiences. A variety of subscription packages are available, including the Flex Pass, which allows you to save AND choose your own series.

The 2010/2011 season brochure is available on line at www.kamloopssymphony.com or request your copy by contacting the Kamloops Symphony office. Subscription packages come in all shapes and sizes,to suit every taste and every budget.

The Classic Series of 10 programs includes the classical composers (Beethoven and Mozart);Eastern European composers (Bruch, Kodaly, Martinu); Christmas with the KSO (a seasonal favourite); Sing Along Messiah (the ultimate in audience participation); Viennese composers (Strauss, Lanner and much more); A Midsummer Night’s Dream (actors, singers and young women’s chorus); Rodrigo and Roux (guitar and flute soloists); a Cabaret-style program with Patricia O’Callaghan; Tchaikovsky and Glinka (piano soloist); with Quartetto Gelato.

Prestige Series: Includes the Classic Series and the Chamber Music Series - all of our performances in this special series for those who want to experience it all!

Flex Pass: A flexible choice that allows you to tailor your experiences to your personal preferences and busy schedule. Includes 6 vouchers to use your way.

Consult the season brochure for pricing information or contact the Kamloops Symphony office at 250-372-5000 for more information.

For more information contact Kathy Humphreys, General Manager
Phone: 250-372-5000
Email: info@kamloopssymphony.com

The Kamloops Film Society Film Hound needs a name!

This dog about town –designed by the late Glenda Mathew--has appeared on Society posters, brochures, membership cards and in our ads for years, and yet still doesn’t have a name!

Now it’s your turn to give the hound a handle! Enter your choice for a name online at our facebook page or email us at kamloopsfilmsociety@gmail.com. You can also enter in person at the Paramount theatre on film society nights.

Contest opens on September 23 and closes on December 2.

The winner will be announced at our first film in January 2011.

Prize: two full passes to the 2011 Kamloops Canadian and International Film Festival

For media inquiries, please contact Tom Friedman at 250.318-1462 or t.friedman@shaw.ca

Lights! Camera! Action - Tourism Kamloops Launches ‘Double Dog Dare’ Challenge Videos

Kamloops, B.C.; The Tourism Kamloops ‘Double Dog Dare’ campaign wrapped up on June 30, 2010, where almost 20,000 votes were cast for TV Meteorologist and Kamloops’ Home Town Boy, Mark Madryga, to perform three ‘Double Dog Dare’ Challenges. The top three were driving a race car, taking on NHL stars past and present in a game of road hockey and a walk on role in the Rocky Horror Show. Now, the video of the challenges, complete with all of the behind-the-scenes action and revelry, is ready to view.

“We’re excited to launch the ‘Double Dog Dare’ Challenge videos,” says Tourism Kamloops CEO Ms. Lee Morris. “Mark had such a great time in Kamloops with his family, and this will be a great way for those who ‘Double Dog Dared’ Mark to do these challenges see how fun, and challenging, they really were. I have to tell you, there’s a ton of hilarious and surprising footage to be seen,”

Those wanting to view the three videos need only to visit the Tourism Kamloops website. In the driving a race car challenge video, viewers will have the chance to see Mark drive Jason White’s race car solo and be a part of starting the main race. In the NHL road hockey challenge video, see Mark get some helpful encouragement from Digger as he does his best to stop shots in the ‘Slap Shot Challenge’. Then in the Rocky Horror Show walk on role challenge video, Mark gets the full makeup and hair treatment and performs the entire ‘Time Warp Dance’ with the Project X Theatre Productions team in front of a sold out audience.

“My time in Kamloops was certainly unlike any other this time around,” jokes Mark. “These dares were all really fun, and certainly challenging. Never have I been to Kamloops before and had to wear fish net stockings and sport a pink faux-hawk. It was a great adventure and people will get a good sense of the fun we all had by watching the videos! I can hardly wait to see what I get to do next in my hometown city of Kamloops!”

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Howard Grieve
Manager, marketing and communications
howard@tourismkamloops.com
www.tourismkamloops.com
250-372-8000
1-866-372-8081

Kamloops Golf Product Contributes to Consumer Tourism Awareness

Kamloops, B.C.; Tobiano Golf Course continues to draw international attention to Kamloops’ golf product and most recently was ranked as the number one public golf course in B.C., sixth public golf course in Canada and as the 16th top golf course overall in Canada by SCOREGolf Magazine in their biennial list of the top 100 Golf Courses.

The average age of the top 20 golf courses on SCOREGolf’s list is 45 years; the top ten is 60 years. SCOREGolf has been ranking Canadian golf courses since 1988. Tobiano is in just its 3rd year of operations. “When you have such a strong anchor course in an already strong golf product,” says Lee Morris, CEO, “we really hit the ground running in our marketing.”

Designed by Canadian architect Thomas McBroom, Tobiano was named Best New Golf Course in Canada in 2008 by SCOREGolf Magazine and US publication, GolfDigest. SCOREGolf subsequently rated Tobiano as Best Public Golf Course in B.C. and Best Conditioned Public Golf Course in B.C. in 2009.

Tourism Kamloops recently completed research resulting in a just released 2010 Metro Vancouver Tracking Study. The strength of Kamloops’ golf product combined with Tourism Kamloops’ marketing efforts has shown some very promising returns. In comparison to a similar study completed in 2008, people who have taken a leisure trip to the Kamloops area in the past two years has risen from 31% to 35%. The number of people who have stayed overnight in Kamloops has risen from 19% to 23% and people that have seen any Tourism Kamloops advertising in the past 12 months has risen from 45% to 59%.

“We are very pleased with these results.” states Lee Morris. “We will be conducting further research in the fall and are optimistic that the results will continue to show increases in visits and awareness.”

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Howard Grieve, Manager, marketing and communications
howard@tourismkamloops.com
www.tourismkamloops.com
250-372-8000
1-866-372-8081

Porsches Roll into the Sun Peaks Village

This is the first time that the Porsche Escape has been held in Canada, and only the second time the National event has been north of the border. Sun Peaks won the bid to host over New Orleans, New Mexico and North Carolina. Club members will participate in a golf tournament and driving tours throughout the weekend, exploring the Thompson Valley in their finely tuned vehicles.

The public will have the best opportunity to view the amazing display of Porsches, from vintage to brand new, on Saturday, September 11 during the Escape Show and Shine. Over 120 Porsches will line the alpine village at Sun Peaks, including the New 2011 Porsche Cayenne, the New Porsche 911 Turbo S, the limited edition Porsche Boxster Spyder, the Porsche Cayman S PDK, and the New Porsche Panamera 4S.

“We are thrilled to bring the Porsche Escape to beautiful BC,” says Daniel Ilias, Vice President for the Canada West Region of the Porsche Club of America. “This is an opportunity to showcase our province and Sun Peaks Resort to Porsche aficionados, some of who are travelling to Sun Peaks from as far away as Texas and North Carolina.”

The Porsche Show and Shine will take place from 9:30am to 3:00pm and awards will be handed out based on popular vote from the public viewing the cars.

For further information please contact:
Melanie Simmons
Media Relations Specialist
Tourism Sun Peaks
Direct: 250-578-5387
Email: tspmedia@sunpeaksresort.com

New Accent Inns ‘Fish for the Future’ program supports British Columbia’s natural environment

Victoria, B.C. – Accent Inns hotels has just launched a new program that will see to the long-term viability of British Columbia’s natural resources, as they continue to fulfill their vision of supporting local groups that strive towards improving the B.C. environment.

“Building business and building community truly go hand-in-hand,” said Accent Inns CEO Mandy Farmer. “And in launching ‘Fish for the Future’ program, we’re showing that it’s possible for every one of us to make a positive difference in our world – a core value held by Accent Inns.”

The program, underway this month, is simple to support. For each guest who stays at any one of the hotel’s locations and shows a valid freshwater or salt water fishing license, Accent Inns will donate $2.00. Accent Inns ‘Fish for the Future’ partners are: Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. and Pacific Salmon Foundation. In addition, the Accent Inns Vancouver Airport also has supporting services for the fishing enthusiasts with shuttle service to the South Terminal / float plane terminal for the ‘fly-in’ fisherman as well as providing freezer service on site.

Many fish populations native to British Columbia are at serious risk due to the destruction of habitat, unsustainable harvesting and the introduction of non-native species. Both the Freshwater Fisheries Society of B.C. and the Pacific Salmon Foundation work to conserve wild fish, provide education, and, over the longer term, to rebuild fish populations. Their commitment, with public support, will enable long term ecological sustainability and social enjoyment of this important aspect of province’s economy.

“Wild Pacific salmon are critical to the overall health of our environment, and businesses like Accent Inns play a very important role by engaging their customers, employees and business partners on behalf of salmon,” said Dr. Brian Riddell, president and CEO of the Pacific Salmon Foundation. “More than 200 businesses support the Pacific Salmon Foundation, but Accent Inns’ new 'Fish for the Future' program is particularly special because it educates the broader public about the importance of wild Pacific salmon conservation, and the role all of us have to play on behalf of the environment.”

With locations in five British Columbia communities: Burnaby, Kelowna, Kamloops, Richmond and Victoria, Accent Inns supports a variety of community-based activities that emphasize making a difference in people’s lives today and in the future. Programs vary from location to location and include food and clothing drives and donations to homeless shelters, the Salvation Army, the TLC and The Royal Canadian Legion.

In addition to its community programs, Accent Inns are also committed to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. And in recognition of Accent Inns’ commitment to protecting the natural world through a range of practices and policies, all of the B.C. hotels have been rated as “Four Green Key” by the Hotel Association of Canada – the second-highest available rating.

For more information on Accent Inns ‘Fish for the Future’ program and Accent Inns locations visit http://www.accentinns.com/deals/fish-for-the-future/fish-for-the-future or call 1-800-663-0298.

Top Ten Fishing Spots in BC

For summer and fall anglers, the province is full of idyllic retreats for a weekend of fresh air, fun and fishing. Fishing offers an affordable way to relax, whether you are planning a family getaway, a weekend with friends or a multi-generational trip with the extended family, the great outdoors offer the perfect holiday at the right price. Visit one of these beautiful spots and see why Accent Inns' 'Fish for the Future' program is helping sustain fishing in British Columbia.

Alberni Harbour - The town of Port Alberni, on Vancouver Island, is a salmon fishing mecca and great place to try your luck in the protected waters of the Alberni Harbour. The harbour is suitable for small-boat fishing and anglers can target chinook and coho salmon through September.

Discovery Pier –The Discovery Pier is probably one of the most accessible fishing spots on the coast. Located in the heart of Campbell River, on Vancouver Island, the 600-foot pier is a great place to take the kids for a lazy afternoon of saltwater fishing. The Pier even offers equipment rentals and a concession stand.

Port Renfrew - Located two hours northwest of Victoria on Highway 14, Port Renfrew and Sooke are just some of the spots along Vancouver Island’s southwest coast that offer great fishing for coho and chinook salmon. This is primarily a small-boat fishery, but anglers can also go fishing with one of the areas’ many charter operators or contact a local marina for information on boat rentals.

Elk River and Tributaries - Close to Fernie, B.C., the Elk River and its tributaries offer world-class fly fishing for Westslope Cutthroat Trout. The river features aggressively feeding trout and beautiful scenery in the East Kootenay Region of the province.

Quesnel Lake – Quesnel Lake is a big water body with even bigger fishing opportunities for rainbow trout and bull trout in one of the deepest fiord lakes in the world. This pristine lake offers excellent trolling, casting and fly fishing, particularly at the mouths of the many small creeks that enter the lake.

Dragon Lake - Almost located in downtown Quesnel, this is one of B.C.'s premier rainbow trout lakes. It is an extremely productive water body, which allows the stocked rainbow trout to reach very large sizes. It is one of B.C.'s most prized fly fishing lakes with trout reaching in excess of 4 kg.

Roche Lake - Situated about 30 minutes southeast of Kamloops in Roche Lake Provincial Park, Roche Lake is one of the most popular fly and spin fishing lakes in the Thompson/Nicola region of the province. Nutrient rich waters and a well-managed fish stocking program provides anglers with quality fishing for rainbow trout.

Sheridan Lake - One of the larger lakes along Highway 24, the fishing highway of the southern Cariboo region of the province, Sheridan Lake supports a healthy population of stocked rainbow trout that reach in excess of 6 kg.

Whiteswan Lake - In beautiful Whiteswan Provincial Park, located north of Cranbrook, this is an extremely picturesque water body with towering mountains as the backdrop for anglers fishing for stocked and wild rainbow trout. These fish are renowned for their strong fighting abilities.

Tunkwa and Leighton Lakes - Located within Tunkwa Lake Provincial Park just north of the town of Logan Lake, B.C., these are two of the most nutrient rich small lakes in the province. This translates into healthy and abundant populations of stocked rainbow trout. Good camping, plus a resort on Tunkwa Lake and paved roads almost to the water’s edge make this an easy weekend trip from the Greater Vancouver area. The trout will reach in excess of 2 kg.

All anglers should check the fresh or saltwater fishing regulations for specific regulations that may apply to any of these BC waters, the regulations can be accessed via www.discoverfishingbc.ca.

Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC
FFS-BC is a non-profit organization who works in partnership with the provincial government to deliver the fish stocking program, promote sport fishing development and provide conservation fish culture services that support steelhead and sturgeon recovery programs.

Pacific Salmon Foundation
The Pacific Salmon Foundation is the trusted voice for the conservation and restoration of wild Pacific salmon and their ecosystems and works to bring salmon back, stream by stream through the strategic use of resources and local communities.

About Accent Inns
The award-winning Accent Inns is a family-owned and operated company based in Victoria, British Columbia, with hotels located in Victoria, Richmond, Burnaby, Kelowna and Kamloops. All Accent Inns are rated 3 1/2 stars and have developed a reputation for their accent on quality, reasonable rates and excellent service.

Campfires Permitted Across the Kamloops Fire Centre

KAMLOOPS – Effective immediately, campfires will be permitted across the Kamloops Fire Centre's jurisdiction due to a decreased risk of wildfires.

Campfires must not be larger than 0.5 metres wide or 0.5 metres tall. Anyone who lights a campfire must have a hand tool such as a shovel, or at least eight litres of water, nearby to fully extinguish it. Never leave a campfire unattended, and make sure ashes are completely cold to the touch before leaving the area.

Although small, contained campfires are now permitted, open fires of any other description remain prohibited. This prohibition includes fireworks and burning barrels.

The rescinding of this prohibition applies to all BC Parks, Crown and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by a fire department. Please check with civic authorities for any restrictions before lighting a fire.

Anyone found in violation of an open fire ban may be issued a ticket for $345. Should a wildfire occur as a result of recklessness, a person can be fined up to $1 million or spend three years in prison and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The Kamloops Fire Centre extends from the northern border of Wells Gray Park, north of Blue River to the U.S. border in the south, and from the Bridge River Glacier west of Goldbridge to the Monashee Mountains east of Lumby.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire please call *5555 on your cellphone, or toll- free to 1 800 663-5555.

For more information on open fire prohibitions, area restrictions or for updates on current wildfire activity, visit www.bcwildfire.ca.

Media Contacts:
Michaela Swan
Fire Information Officer
250 554-5532
250 318-7456

Kayla Pepper
Fire Information Officer
250 554-5964
250 318-6959

For more information on government services or to subscribe to the Province’s news feeds using RSS, visit the Province’s website at www.gov.bc.ca.

Are you the King of the Mountain??

King of the Mountain Enduro DH – $4250 Cash Purse

Sun Peaks, BC (August 25, 2010) – It’s one thing to shred the Sun Peaks Bike Park with your friends on weekends. It’s another to pin it straight for six hours and prove you are the King of the Mountain on Saturday, September 11.

Time is running out to register for the King of the Mountain Enduro DH, presented by Granville Island Brewing, where there is $4250.00 in cash on the line! It’s all about skill, fitness and stamina, as competitors race to see who can complete the most Bike Park laps in six hours. Beyond the amazing cash purse, there are thousands of dollars in prizes from Maxxis and Dakine for teams and individuals racing. The race begins with a Le Mans start, and the course is Sugar to Arm Pump and finishes on Home Run.

Riders will be capped at 100, so register early to ensure you have the chance to earn the cash and the bragging rights as King of the Mountain. Registration is $150 for teams or $80 for individuals. Sign up by Friday, August 27 to save $15! Registration fees include your Bike Park lift ticket, a King of the Mountain Enduro DH t-shirt and the post-race BBQ.

For more information or to register, call Sun Peaks Guest Services at 250-578-5474.

Phenomenal Sockeye Run Forecast

Record returns of sockeye salmon at Shuswap and Adams River spawning grounds will make for “phenomenal” viewing, as well as provide more opportunity for sport and commercial anglers.

Barry Rosenberger, Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s area director, said Tuesday the latest estimate from the Pacific Salmon Commission indicates the return of sockeye salmon to the Fraser River is the largest in recorded history.

More than 25 million fish are on the move into the river, headed for spawning grounds throughout the Interior. More than 16 million of the Fraser River fish are bound for runs in the Shuswap, including the Adams River.

Rosenberger said commercial, native and sport anglers will likely harvest 40 per cent or so of those fish. The rest, however, are expected to arrive on the spawning grounds, meaning more than eight million fish could be in the Adams River this October.

This is the largest return in the sockeye’s four-year spawning cycle, but this year’s estimates are much larger than past peaks. In 2006, 2.5 million fish returned. In 2002, 5.5 million came back.

Some people worry such big numbers of spawning fish do more harm than good on the spawning grounds, as there is not sufficient space for all the fish to mate, lay their eggs and die.

“People have raised concerns about overspawning,” he said, adding this year’s return could put a great deal of strain on the ecosystem.

The mass of fish will make for tremendous viewing opportunities, he noted. The Salute to the Sockeye will take place at Roderick Haig-Brown provincial park in early October, the peak of the run.

Hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected to head for the park to take in the natural spectacle, billed as the largest run of spawning fish in the world.

For more information about the planned Salute to the Sockeye, visit the Adams River Society’s web site at http://www.salmonsociety.com.

Rosenberger said sockeye salmon are already showing big numbers in some Shuswap tributaries, including Scotch Creek, where more than 70,000 fish have flooded the small system in recent days.

The Adams-bound salmon typically do not arrive in the lake until late September, and rush the river in early October.

Rosenberger said river temperatures are not as warm as they have been in past years, and water levels are higher. As a result, it’s not expected the run will suffer the dramatic mortality some sockeye runs have faced in past years.

“It will be pretty phenomenal,” Rosenberger said. “If people want to see wild salmon on the spawning grounds, this would be the year.”

Commercial and sport anglers will also have more opportunity to catch the fish well into terminal areas of the system, he said. Sport seasons are already open in place on the Thompson River, and a Secwepemc commercial gillnet fishery will go ahead on Kamloops Lake.

Tobiano Marina on Kamloops Lake

BC Interior's Newest Freshwater Marina!

August 17, 2010, Kamloops, B.C. – Tobiano, the celebrated resort community near Kamloops, British Columbia, will begin construction of the Tobiano Marina on the south shore of Kamloops Lake this fall. In celebration of its newest amenity, the next 10 purchasers of Tobiano lots will receive a 2011 reserved boat slip, 2011 golf membership and a full HST Sales Credit. Lots at Tobiano start at $189,900, inclusive of HST.

“We are particularly excited to introduce ocean-proven engineering and design to our B.C. Interior freshwater lake,” says Michael Grenier, president of Pagebrook Inc. and developer of Tobiano. "Tobiano Marina’s environmentally friendly floating breakwater design will attenuate one-meter wave conditions from multiple wind directions and during all seasonal lake level variations."

To be operational at the commencement of the 2011 boating season, Phase 1 works include 124 boat slips in 25- and 30-foot configurations with 990 lineal feet of dock extensions and headers. The marina basin will be sheltered by two expansive 500-foot floating breakwaters, constructed of concrete and wood. Vancouver Pile Driving Ltd. will prefabricate the components in its works yard and install them at Tobiano throughout the fall and winter. The existing trestle, observation deck, boat launch and fuel dock will be incorporated within the protected marina basin. Marina capital expenditures will total $6.1 million.

Kamloops Lake
Tobiano Marina is the only protected harbour on scenic 30-km long Kamloops Lake, one of the BC Interior’s major water bodies. Fed by the North and South Thompson Rivers and clear waters that flow from Wells Grey Park and the Shuswap, Kamloops Lake is an untapped recreation playground for boaters and water-sport enthusiasts alike. The Lake’s 60 km of open shoreline is now accessible to the boating public for picnics, exploration and as an activity base for a family day of fun. Grenier notes, “Just one afternoon on uncrowded Kamloops Lake, and you’ll wonder why you haven’t been boating here for years”.

Tobiano
Only 15 minutes west of Kamloops on Highway 1, Tobiano is one of Western Canada’s leading resort communities, celebrated for its Thomas McBroom-designed golf course and the architecture of several of its award-winning buildings. Tobiano was recently featured in Canada’s Olympic commercials, aired around the globe in promotion of BC tourism. Set upon 1,000 scenic acres, Tobiano already features three resort residential subdivisions and two town home developments overlooking picturesque Kamloops Lake. In addition to the golf course, marina basin, and 17,000-acre backcountry fishing lakes and trails, future amenities include an equestrian centre, vineyard, resort village and hotel accommodations.

Resort Lots and marina slips can be reserved at The Tobiano Presentation Centre, 1- 877-373-0055, or tobianoliving.com/marina.

Media contact:
Patricia Dunn
Dunn Public Relations
604-916-3033
patricia@dunnpr.com

Michael Grenier
250-434-5858
mgdirect@telus.net

Final ‘Double Dog Dare’ Challenge / Rocky Horror Show

Final ‘Double Dog Dare’ Challenge / Rocky Horror Show

Kamloops, B.C.; The Tourism Kamloops ‘Double Dog Dare’ campaign wrapped up on June 30, 2010, and the voters had chosen three challenges for Kamloops’ Home Town Boy, Mark Madryga, to take on this summer including driving a race car, a road hockey challenge versus NHL Stars and a walk on role in Project X Theatre Production’s ‘Rocky Horror Show’. Mark has completed the first two challenges and is currently practicing his ‘Time Warp Dance’ steps to be debuted this Saturday night!

“We’re excited to welcome Mark back again this weekend to Kamloops,” says Tourism Kamloops CEO Ms. Lee Morris. “He enjoyed the race car driving and the road hockey, and from what I understand, is nervously excited about his walk on role in the Rocky Horror Show with Project X Theatre Productions this Saturday night at Prince Charles Park.”

In fact, back at the Global BC Morning News desk, Mark and his upcoming role in the show have been quite the talk with the news Anchors Steve Darling and Lynn Collier, who have been subjecting him to training videos on the ‘Time Warp Dance’.

“All of this extra coverage to our key target markets throughout British Columbia is in part what we were hoping to achieve with this campaign,” says Ms. Morris. “The more that people are exposed to what a fun and exciting place Kamloops is to let loose and just play, the better chance we have in being on their radar for a getaway.”

In a press release issued just yesterday from Tourism Kamloops, the overall accommodation revenues for the first 5 months of 2010 show positive increases, showing that Kamloops continues to be well positioned as a ‘staycation’ destination for the province of B.C.

The general public is welcome to come and watch Mark in his walk-on role. Tickets can be purchased at the Kamloops LIVE! Box Office and, at the time of this press release’s distribution, ticket availability showed as good.

Kamloops Blazers 2010/2011 Schedule Announced

The Kamloops Blazers have released their regular season schedule for the upcoming 2010-2011 hockey season. The hockey club will kick off the season with two home games on Friday, September 24th versus Prince George and Saturday, September 25th versus Chilliwack.

X Fest 2010 is in the final stretch!

The response has been incredible! 12th Night, or What You Will and The Rocky Horror Show have been satisfying audiences for 2 weeks now. As we Time Warp into our final week, be sure to book your tickets early for THE event of the summer!

Project X will also be wrapping up our 12th Night/1200/$12 donation campaign soon! Please help us reach our goal to combat arts funding cuts from the BC Government! Visit www.projectxtheatre.ca for more information.

Also, join us this Sunday, August 8 for the return of our X-tra Large Garage Sale Fundraiser! Are you a treasure seeker? Come down to Prince Charles Park between 8am and noon and visit our set while browsing through hundreds of items that could become YOUR next treasure!

Want to grab an amazing dinner before the show? In conjunction with The Hot House Bistro, you can order dinner with your tickets to 12th Night or Rocky Horror and either enjoy a delicious meal at Hot House Bistro on Victoria Street, or pick it up and picnic in the pristine beauty of Prince Charles Park. Contact Kamloops Live! Box Office for information.

And you definitely do NOT want to miss The Rocky Horror Show on our closing night, Saturday, August 14! This is the night that Global News meteorologist and former Kamloopsian Mark Madryga will fulfill his Double Dog Dare Challenge to do a walk-on role in the cult classic rock and roll musical!

X Fest 2010 runs nightly (except Sundays) in Prince Charles Park (Columbia Street and 12th Ave) until August 14. Show time is 7:30pm. Tickets are available at Kamloops Live! Box Office, 1025 Lorne Street, 250-374-5483, or online at www.kamloopslive.com.

Tickets are also available at the gates before each performance. Please double check the performance schedule before buying your tickets.

$12, or What You Will, we have 528 of our 1200 donations – only 672 to go!

Mark Madryga to take on 'Double Dog Dare' Challenges

The Tourism Kamloops Double Dog Dare campaign wrapped up on June 30, 2010 and the voters chose three challenges for Kamloops’ Home Town Boy, Mark Madryga, to take on this summer including driving a race car, a short walk on role in Project X Theatre’s production “Rocky Horror Show’ and a road hockey challenge versus past and present NHL players and Blazer alumni. Now, Mark is coming to Kamloops to fulfill the voter’s wishes.

“I’m really excited to be coming back to Kamloops for a getaway with my family this summer,” says Mark Madryga. My wife and kids are looking forward to being with me to watch me taking on these challenges and, from what I understand, it was a pretty close race at the end from the 12 original challenges which was great to see.

Not only did the campaign see close to 20,000 votes cast for the Double Dog Dare challenges, but overall visits and website pageviews to www.tourismkamloops.com have also grown significantly, highlighting Kamloops as a great place to visit.

Saturday – July 31 – Driving a Race Car Challenge: Mark will be at the Motoplex Speedway & Event Park 50 mins drive from Kamloops towards Vernon driving NASCAR racer Jason White’s #21 car between 3 pm and 5 pm and will be the co-Grand Marshall on the main race. (admission to get into the event at the gate)

Sunday – August 1 – NHL Road Hockey Challenge: Mark will be taking on NHL players past and present and Blazer alumni in a game of road hockey from 3 pm to 4 pm at the Juniper Ridge Park.

Saturday – August 14 – ‘Rocky Horror Show’ Challenge: Mark will be performing a short walk on role in Project X Theatre’s production of ‘Rocky Horror Show’ at 7:30 pm. (tickets in advance)

Stay tuned to the Tourism Kamloops’ website to watch video of Mark performing his ‘Double Dog Dare’ challenges later this summer as all the action will be filmed.

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Howard Grieve
Manager, marketing and communications
TOURISM KAMLOOPS
howard@tourismkamloops.com
www.tourismkamloops.com
1-866-372-8081

Tourism Kamloops Launches I-Phone App and Mobile Website

Kamloops, BC: Just in time to take advantage of the new 4G I-Phone, Tourism Kamloops has launched an I-Phone App and mobile website to service a rapidly growing market niche.

Potential and arriving visitors to Kamloops will now have another way to research their trip and enhance their experience upon arrival using the new Tourism Kamloops I-Phone App and mobile website. “We’re excited to be launching our I-Phone App and mobile website.” said Tourism Kamloops’ CEO Ms. Lee Morris. “Tourism Kamloops is one of only a few destination marketing organizations in the province to have a comprehensive I-Phone App to support marketing efforts.”

Designed to provide easy and fast access to tourism-related information, the I-Phone app and mobile website connect users to a comprehensive list of accommodations, attractions, restaurants, golf courses, events, transportation, nightlife and live music venues, spas, shopping, sports and recreation, arts, culture and heritage. Each listing has the capability to connect the user directly to the supplier by telephone, email or to their website. If the mobile device being used is GPS equipped, the app will bring up the closest supplier by category, provide distances and with the augmented reality (AR) feature, use the mobile device’s camera and GPS to show in which direction the supplier is located as the user sweeps the area.

The I-Phone app is fed information from the Tourism Kamloops website so daily updates to events and other listings are automatically updated to the app every night. A slideshow on the app provides high quality images to showcase the area and each listing has the ability to display a logo and an image. Accommodations have up to 8 images that can be used to showcase their properties.

Designed to connect the user to the information they seek at between 5 – 7 seconds, the app listings contain a short description and complete contact information as provided to Tourism Kamloops by suppliers. The GPS system allows for visitors to map out routes to suppliers locations with estimated arrival times. The I-Phone App is available as a free download from the online Apple Store.

The I-Phone App is designed to be wrapped and used by most mobile devices including Blackberry and Smart Phones on a mobile site. If someone visits the Tourism Kamloops website on a mobile device, they will automatically be redirected to the new m.tourismkamloops.com mobile site. The app and mobile site are designed to provide a complete listing of suppliers that are easy to read and navigate. If mobile users still wish to visit the full website, they have a link back from the mobile site that allows them to enter www.tourismkamloops.com.

The I-Phone App also features Tourism Kamloops’ Twitter feeds, the ability to share the user’s vacation images automatically with friends, add suppliers to a favourites list and use a search function for even faster navigation on the site.

The Tourism Kamloops primary website has seen some significant improvements and enhancements recently and now features two high resolution webcams, multiple video presentations, custom downloadable Kamloops Google maps, web-based e-marketing software, flash presentations, maximum width viewing, news and weather. The events listing by category allows for locals to upload their events and once approved by Tourism Kamloops staff and depending on the nature of the event, it will appear on the City of Kamloops, Venture Kamloops and Chamber of Commerce websites as well.

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Howard Grieve
Manager, marketing and communications
howard@tourismkamloops.com
www.tourismkamloops.com
250-372-8000 or 1-866-372-8081

X-Fest 2010 is a hit!

*Next Wednesday, August 4, join us for the FULL Rocky Horror experience! Dress up as your favorite character! Bring a small squirt gun, a newspaper and a handful of rice! Learn the callback lines and shout them out! Dance along to The Time Warp! This is a special fundraiser performance that you will NOT want to miss! Tickets are $30 and are available at Kamloops Live Box Office.

*Want to grab an amazing dinner before the show? In conjunction with Hot House Bistro, you can order dinner with your tickets to 12th Night or Rocky Horror and either enjoy a delicious meal at Hot House Bistro on Victoria Street, or pick it up and picnic in the pristine beauty of Prince Charles Park. Just $35 gets you dinner & a show! Contact Kamloops Live! Box Office for information.

*If you are coming from out of town, consider a night at the South Thompson Inn & Guest Ranch. They have a special deal for accommodation, snack plate, and tickets to X Fest. Visit www.stigr.com to book!

*Don't forget that Mondays are Buy One Get One nights, so bring a friend (or 3)!

X Fest 2010, featuring 12th Night, or What You Will paired with Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show runs nightly, except Sundays, until August 14th. Showtimes are 7:30pm. Tickets are available now through Kamloops Live! Box Office, 250-374-LIVE or online at www.kamloopslive.com. Tickets are also available at the gates before each performance. Please check the schedule before purchasing your tickets. For more information, including a performance schedule, visit our website at www.projectxtheatre.ca

$12, or What You Will, we have 492 of our 1200 donations – only 708 to go!

Test your aim for $70,000 in prizes!

14th Annual Nancy Greene Golf Benefit: August 20

Sun Peaks, BC (July 20, 2010) – Over $70,000 in prizes are up for grabs simply for getting a hole-in-one on the Sun Peaks Golf Course during the Nancy Greene Golf Benefit on Friday, August 20.

There are three hole-in-one contests during the 14th Annual event benefitting the Sun Peaks Health Association with the following prizes: a complete hot tub package from Sun Peaks Aquatics, a 2011 Buick Regal from Zimmer Wheaton GMC, and an African Safari for two, from BFL Canada Insurance Services.

Teams of four players will tee off in an 18-hole Scramble format tournament, followed by a banquet and auction at the Delta Sun Peaks Resort hotel. Steve Darling from Global BC Television is the special guest MC for the event.

The $175 entry fee per person includes 18-holes of golf with a shared power cart, complimentary food and beverages on course, an event souvenir, contests and prizes, and the awards dinner and auction.

For more information, visit www.sunpeaksresort.com or to register, please contact melanie.smith@telus.net.

Kamloops CHBA CI Members Finalists in First Annual Built Green BC Awards

Built Green BC has announced the finalists for the first annual Built Green BC Awards. Five of 24 finalists are from Kamloops.

Nexbuild Construction is a finalist in the Most Affordable Built Green BC Home category for their Highland Place entry as well as a finalist for Built Green BC Builder of the Year category.

Homex Development Corporation was named a finalist in the Most Energy Efficient and Sustainable Community category for Summit Pointe as well as a finalist for Built Green BC Builder of the Year category.

Canadian Home Builders Association Central Interior was named finalist in the Most Innovative Built Green BC Home for their Green Dream Home entry.

"I was not only impressed by the quality of the finalist projects, but also the degree of innovation demonstrated by the builders of these homes," stated Davide Bengert, Chair of Built Green TM Canada and judge for the awards.

"Kamloops is always well represented at the Awards," said Darryl Caunt, President of CHBA Central Interior. "We have very talented forward thinking builders and developers in our region as is evidenced by our showing in this new green focused awards competition."

"Since its introduction in BC, the Built Green TM BC program has flourished," shared Bob Deeks, President and Built Green TM Canada board member. "Today, there are 2,800 registered homes in BC (121 in the Central BC region) which combined save about 7,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases annually - this is the equivalent of removing 2,100 cars from BC roads each year."

Winners for the Built Green TM Canada awards will be announced at a gala dinner and awards ceremony on September 17, 2010 at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel in Vancouver.

CHBA Central Interior is an active residential builder association of 200 members representing the Central Interior region of BC.

For more information or images please contact Patsy Bourassa, Executive Officer at 250-828-1844 or email her at patsy@chbaci.ca

Sun Peaks wins bid to host Porshe Club of America's National Gathering

Porsche No. 1, a mid-engine roadster, was completed in 1948 in the Austrian town of Gmund. Over sixty years later, the Porsche Club of America will host their National Gathering in the Austrian-inspired village of Sun Peaks Resort. Sun Peaks won the bid over New Orleans, New Mexico and North Carolina to host up to 250 Porsches and over 350 attendees at this National event. Attendees will participate in a golf tournament and car tours throughout the weekend, exploring the Thompson Valley in their finely tuned vehicles. The public will have the best opportunity to view the amazing display of Porsches, from vintage to brand new, on Saturday, September 11. The cars will be lined up throughout the alpine village at Sun Peaks for the “Escape Show and Shine.” As owners buff and polish their cars, the public has the chance to pick their favourite from the crowd! The National Gathering takes place September 9-12, 2010.

Tobiano hosts Worlds First 360 Hole Playoff

This summer, two golfers will compete in a 360-hole playoff, taking them to 9 countries on 3 continents over 50 days. At stake: a job at adidas Golf.

The playoff begins in Germany, continues to Norway, Scotland, Dubai, Thailand, South Korea, Japan, Canada and finishes in Bandon Dunes, Oregon.

Throughout the entire challenge, the athletes will put adidas Golf apparel and footwear in play, testing our industry-leading performance technologies in a range of conditions on courses throughout the world.

The two golfers will also compete in a series of competitions off the course. Follow it online and you'll have a chance to win adidas Golf equipment and other prizes.

Tobiano will be hosting this event on August 8th & 9th, 2010!

WCT is off to the Caravan!

Western Canada Theatre is excited to announce that, after a year's hiatus, their magical Night Under the Stars tour to Caravan Fam Theatre in Armstrong is back!

On Saturday, August 7th, 2010 departing at 3:00pm, we invite you to travel in style aboard the air conditioned coach to the Shuswap Lake Estates where you will begin your evening with a glass of wine and a delicious buffet dinner at the Log N' Hearth Restaurant. Then it's off to enjoy Everyone - a modern morality play in seven horse drawn acts featuring live music, stunning design, and six horse-drawn wagons. Everyone is the story of one family's daily life, told in the most extraordinary way by some of hte country's most extraordinary artists.

This special evening is a fundraiser for the Western Canada Theatre Endowment Fun within the Kamloops foundation.

There is limited space so we suggest you pick up your tickets soon! Tickets are $95 plus HST and include bus far, your meal, wine at the restaurant and your theatre ticket. They can be purchased at Kamloops Live! Box Office, 1025 Lorne Street, or by calling 250-374-LIVE (5483). We hope you are able to join us.

Important Reminder: As the Caravan is an evening outdoor venue, cushions and blankets for extra comfort and clothing suitable for the weather as well as a flashlight are welcome.

BC's First Childrens Museum opens its doors

Kamloops, B.C. – Saturday, July 10th, 2010 will mark the Grand Opening of British Columbia’s first Children’s Museum at the Kamloops Museum and Archives.

The Children’s Museum, located on the first floor of the Kamloops Museum & Archives at 207 Seymour Street, will include interactive displays, such as a dress-up area and puppet theatre, as well as a space-station-themed reading area and steamship station. There will also be a water table, games to play and models to make, ensuring there’s something for kids of all ages.

The Grand Opening will also include the official opening of the Secwepmec and History of Kamloops exhibits.

"Kamloops has been waiting a long time for the renovation work on the new history galleries and the children's museum to be completed. I am thrilled the moment has finally arrived. I can guarantee the results are well worth the wait. Kamloops now has one of the best museums in the province," said Elisabeth Duckworth, Museum Supervisor.

Celebrations will take place from 8:00 am to noon on Saturday, July 10th, including an official cake cutting at approximately 10:30 am.

Second Avenue will be closed between Seymour Street and St. Paul Street for the festivities. The Kamloops Vintage Car Club will have its collection of cars on display, in addition to live music and entertainment on the street. The Downtown Farmers’ Market and Artisans’ Square are also taking place in close proximity, so there's fun for the whole family on Saturday morning.

Media Contact:
Elisabeth Duckworth
Museum Supervisor
Kamloops Museum & Archives
250.828.3576

X-Fest The "Twelve" Days of Summer

It’s not always easy finding a new and interesting way to present a 400 year-old play. Over the last seven years, Project X Theatre Productions has made something of a career of updating or re-visioning Shakespeare’s works to appeal to a broad audience base. Concepts for past shows have included contemporary Hollywood, post-apocalypse, 80s Karaoke, 1880s circus and graphic novel. This year, director Derek Rein has found a fascinating world just under the surface of 12th Night, or What You Will.

Rein, in researching the play realized that it is an exploration as much of fate and destiny as it is of love – and chose to bring that theme to the forefront. Feste, perhaps Shakespeare’s best-known and best-loved Fool, is a fortune-teller, a keeper of the fates of others. She sees and knows all.

“The characters in 12th Night end up where they end up – whether in marriage or completely alone – because of fate” says Rein. “And having Feste, the smartest character in the play, somewhat in control of that destiny felt right.”

The concept truly begins with an aesthetic – the colourful, mysterious world of Tarot cards. Those jewel-coloured images you see bring to mind a touch of Italian Renaissance, and that is exactly where Rein and costume designer Bonnie Pavlovic took their inspiration. Costumes for the piece are mostly traditional Elizabethan, but bold in colour and cut – a stunning display of design prowess and workmanship. “It will be a feast for the eyes, as well as the ears,” says Co-Artistic Producer Samantha MacDonald. She adds, “It’s not to be missed.”

X Fest 2010, featuring 12th Night, or What You Will paired with Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show opens July 21 and runs nightly, except Sundays, until August 14th. Showtimes are 7:30pm. Tickets are available now through Kamloops Live! Box Office, 250-374-LIVE or online at www.kamloopslive.com.

Tourism Kamloops' 'Double Dog Dare' Challenges Chosen

Kamloops, BC: The Tourism Kamloops Double Dog Dare campaign wrapped up as of midnight on June 30, 2010, and the voters have chosen three diverse, exciting and hilarious challenges for Kamloops’ Home Town Boy, Mark Madryga, to take on this summer!

“Our Double Dog Dare campaign, featuring TV Meteorologist and Kamloops’ Home Town Boy, Mark Madryga, has garnered a lot of positive attention” says Tourism Kamloops’ CEO Ms. Lee Morris. “People had the opportunity to visit the Tourism Kamloops website and vote every day for the top three challenges wanted to see Mark Madryga do this summer.”

The three challenges Mark Madryga will take on at the end of July | beginning of August are:
1st Place: Walk On Role in Project X Production’s presentation of the ‘Rocky Horror Show’
2nd Place: Driving a Race Car at A&W’s Cruisin’ the Dub 300 Nascar Series
3rd Place: Road Hockey against NHL stars

“The campaign launched with 12 challenges and has been narrowed down to these three challenges, which Mark is excited to take on,” says Lee Morris. “This was an exciting way to get visitors interacting with our website and getting a taste of some of the fun challenges they too can experience on a getaway to Kamloops.”

Not only did the campaign see close to 20,000 votes cast for the Double Dog Dare challenges, but overall visits and website page views has also grown significantly, highlighting Kamloops as a great place to visit.

“We’re pleased with the increased awareness to www.tourismkamloops.com where visitors will find out all they need to know about planning an exciting getaway in Kamloops this summer.”

Early indications show a dramatic increase in visits to the Tourism Kamloops website, attributed to a strategic marketing plan including the Double Dog Dare campaign targeting the Lower Mainland and other key market areas. These increases have driven more interest to all tourism products featured on the website including accommodation, golf product, attractions, nightlife and more.

For More Information:
Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops
P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247
E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

City of Kamloops Annual Report 2009

Did you know? Kamloops airport saw a 15% increase in visitors in 2009 due to new jet service and a newly renovated terminal with additional capacity. Learn more about what is happening in Kamloops in the City's 2009 Annual Report.

Canada's Newest Municipality

Sun Peaks is Officially Canada's Newest Municipality and the First Ever Mountain Resort Municipality.

First municipal council sworn in TODAY with ski industry legend, Al raine, as mayor.

Sun Peaks, BC (June 28, 2010) - This afternoon, the BC Interior’s largest ski resort, Sun Peaks, became Canada’s newest municipality and - under special new Provincial legislation - it is the country’s first “mountain resort” municipality.

Mayor Al Raine and four councillors were sworn in at the Delta Sun Peaks Resort hotel. The four councillors are: Mario Pozza, Ines Popig, Mike Forster and Darcy Alexander.

Under the special provincial legislation that created the “mountain resort” municipality, one of the council members will be appointed by the Provincial Government and will be a representative of Sun Peaks Resort Corporation, in recognition of the integral role the company plays in the community. Appointee Darcy Alexander is the VP and General Manager of Sun Peaks Resort Corporation.

As a Mountain Resort Municipality, Sun Peaks will be able to levy taxes, as well as receive a portion of the hotel HST and a provincial small community grant.

“As a municipality, we will be in a better position to make decisions about our local community,” says Mayor Al Raine. “We would like to get a school up here, so that our children don’t have to travel all the way to Heffley Creek. We also need to tackle issues like affordable housing, employee housing and we would like to see an eastern access road to make it easier for visitors to get here.”

Mayor Raine is a leader in ski resort development in BC. Raine was involved in the development of Whistler, BC in the 1970s and 1980s and has lived in Sun Peaks since 1994. At 68, he might be expected to be taking it easy and spending more time golfing and skiing, but he says he couldn’t resist the opportunity to be part of building Sun Peaks into a vibrant, thriving community.

For further information about the inauguration and coverage opportunities, please contact:
Laurie Cooper
Cooper Plus Communications
laurie@cooperplus.com
Phone: 604 376 3207

Slo-Pitch City Ground Breaking Day!

Kamloops, BC – Phase 1 of the Rayleigh Slo-Pitch Park broke ground today at the former Rayleigh Correctional Facility site. The groundbreaking ceremony hosted by Mayor Peter Milobar included an address by MP Cathy McLeod, MLA Dr. Terry Lake, Councilor George Casimir, and representatives from the local slo-pitch and rugby clubs.

Total construction costs for this new Tournament Capital Project will be $9.79 million, with the Federal, Provincial and Municipal governments each contributing one-third. The projected completion date is set for March 31, 2011.

"Today's ground-breaking is another example of how the Government of Canada has taken action to accelerate infrastructure investments that create jobs and boost our economy," said Cathy McLeod, Member of Parliament for Kamloops – Thompson – Cariboo. “This project will not only improve this community’s access to outdoor infrastructure, but will also contribute to Kamloops’ reputation as a world class tournament city.”

This multi-million dollar project will result in 8 slo-pitch diamonds built to national tournament standards, 4 of which will have field lighting; 3 rugby pitches including at least 2 with full-size end zones; access road improvements and railway crossing improvements, including a notable entrance archway; washroom/change room complex; a multi-use plaza area with beer gardens and picnic areas; a playground area and walking paths; and landscaping that aims to preserve and restore the naturalized grass areas.

“Not only will the new slo-pitch park help keep our community healthy and active, but it will be a huge boost for our local economy when we begin hosting tournaments at the new complex, “ said Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Dr. Terry Lake.

According to Mayor Peter Milobar, the new slo-pitch park will be the last major project completed under the Tournament Capital initiative and will provide economic benefits to the Kamloops region long after it’s built. “The impact this facility will have on the tourism sector of our economy will be very positive as Kamloops will now have the ability to host slo-pitch tournaments at a whole new level.”

Phase 2 of the Rayleigh project involves the development of an additional three parcels of land. The first site, approximately 14 hectares in size, will allow for crop production, while the second site of about 4 hectares has potential as an agri-tourism facility. The third site made up of 15 hectares is being looked at as an Agri-plex facility and agricultural exhibition site. The Tk’emlups Indian Band also owns an adjacent parcel of land and plans to develop a 150-stall RV park which will greatly benefit the Slo-Pitch Park as well as the Kamloops region.

“Softball City is another legacy that the Tk’emlups Indian Band is proud to be a part of, in not only good governance, but building sport legacy for our community and creating a partnership that benefits our people,” said Chief Shane Gottfriedson.

Media Contact:
Byron McCorkell, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Director
City of Kamloops
250-828-3489
bmccorkell@kamloops.ca

Sunburst Chair opens Saturday at Sun Peaks!

Sunburst Chair opens Saturday for mountain biking and hiking!

Sun Peaks, BC (June 23, 2010) – Excitement is building for the first day of downhill mountain biking and alpine hiking at Sun Peaks Resort, as the Sunburst Chairlift starts turning at 10:00am this Saturday, June 26.

From steep and technical downhill runs to berm loaded machine-made trails…the options are endless, but when it comes to single track, no other park does it better. Dozens of kilometres of flowing single track trails loaded with natural and man-made features await riders of all abilities. With no lift lines and 70 kilometres of terrain to cover, grab your bike and spend the weekend discovering the Bike Park!

For those looking for a less extreme outdoor adventure, with the opening of the Sunburst Chairlift means access to 30 kilometres of hiking trails, ranging from flat and easy strolls, to advanced hikes up to the Top of the World.

Trail maps for both biking and hiking are available at Guest Services in the Village Day Lodge.

Summer Chairlift Operations

Dates: June 26th - September 6th, Daily operations
September 7 - 26th - Fri, Sat & Sun

Time: Open from 10:00am - 5:00pm

Rates: Mountain Biking Lift Ticket - Adult $39, Youth $33
Alpine Hiking Lift Ticket - Adult $18, Youth $15

Mainstage 2010

Mainstage brings performances and more to Kamloops

Kamloops, B.C. – As Theatre BC’s Annual Provincial Theatre Festival, Mainstage 2010 will bring everything from acting workshops to full scale performances to Kamloops from July 2nd to July 10th.

Year after year, Mainstage has adopted many varied theatre activities that have been developed into regular festival components. This unique atmosphere provides educational opportunities as well as entertainment. In addition to the nightly performances, ticket holders have access to a variety of activities:

- Daily workshops that focus on topics from costume design and theatre illusion to event planning and budgeting

- Coffee critiques, which take place each morning at the Old Courthouse Cultural Centre, with adjudicator Jerry Wasserman and the cast and crew of the previous evening’s performance

- Greenroom parties, which are socials that take place after the evening performances at the Old Courthouse

- Workshop plays, which can be seen at the Pavilion Theatre

The nightly performance line-up boasts an eclectic mix from comedy to gothic to musical, including such titles as ‘Ravenscroft’, ‘Disney’s Mulan Jr.’, and ‘Sex, Drugs, and Rock & Roll.’

Full-week passes include tickets to all Mainstage performances, workshop plays, morning coffee critiques and Greenroom parties. Three- and five-day passes as well as individual performance tickets are also available. Tickets are available through Kamloops Live! Box Office at www.kamloopslive.com.

For the full Mainstage schedule and additional information, visit www.mainstage2010.ca.

Media Contact:
Cara Graden, Arts, Culture and Heritage Coordinator
City of Kamloops
250-828-3611
cgraden@kamloops.ca

Kamloops Symphony Early Bird Deadline!

KAMLOOPS SYMPHONY early subscription price deadline for the 2010-2011 Season is June 30th.

Kamloops Symphony Music Director Bruce Dunn heads into his 21st season with another fabulous set of exciting programs. Kamloops audiences can look forward to experiencing music, both new and familiar, with the orchestra and Canadian soloist from right here at home and joining them from across the country.

The 2010/2011 season brochure is available on line or request your copy by contacting the Kamloops Symphony office. Subscription packages come in all shapes and sizes, to suit every taste and every budget.

The Chamber Music series features members of the Kamloops Symphony as well as special guests, including Germany's Jacques Thibaud Trio with Canadian pianist Anton Kuerti and British Columbia born tenor Richard Margison.

The 10 Classic Series programs include the classic (Bruch, Kodaly, Martinu); Christmas with the KSO (a seasonal favourite); Sing Along Messiah (the ultimate in audience participation); Viennese composers (Strauss, Lanner and much more); A Midsummer Night's Dream (actors, singeres and young women’s chorus); Rodrigo and Roux (guitar and flute soloists); A Cabaret-style program with Patricia O Callaghan; Tchaikovsky and Glinka (piano soloist); and Italianissimo! with Quartetto Gelato.

Prestige Series: Includes the Classic Series and the Chamber Music Series - all of our performances in this special series for those who want to experience it all and save 25%!

Flex Pass: A flexible choice that allows you to tailor your experiences to your personal preference and busy schedule - 6 vouchers to use your way.

Renewing subscribers can retain their seats by purchasing subscriptions by the June 30th, 2010 deadling. Pricing information can be found online, or by calling the Kamloops Symphony office at 250-372-5000 or toll free at 1-866-374-5483.

For more information contact Kathy Humphreys, Genergal Manager at 25-372-5000 or email at info@kamloopssymphony.com

BC Lions Fan Fest Day

Calling all cubs, big and small, to come out and play! Kamloops, B.C. - The City of Kamloops in partnership with the BC Lions Football Club are hosting a BC Lions Fan Fest day on Saturday, June 12th and are inviting fans of all ages to join in on the festivities.

Fan Fest will take place from 9:00am to 1:00pm at Hillside Stadium. Fans will have the opportunity to catch the Lions in action during their practice from 9:00 - 10:00am as well as the chance to meet the players during an autograph/photograph session immediately afterwards.

Additionally, the Lions will be conducting a clinic for Kamloops Minor Football players and participating in interviews on the main stage. Fans will enjoy live entertainment throughout the event, including performances by the Felions (BC Lions Cheerleaders) and a chance to meet Leo the Lion.

Other activities include inflatable games, face painting, and 50/50 draws for BC Lions prizes. Make sure to pick up some Lions gear at the merchandise tent to be entered into a draw to win tickets to a BC Lions game! Food and beverage service will be available including a BBQ lunch with proceeds going to Kamloops Minor Football.

For more information or to review the agenda, visit the City of Kamloops website at www.kamloops.ca

Media Contact: Tanya Robinson, Community Events Supervisor for the City of Kamloops.

E: trobinson@kamloops.ca or P: 250-828-3368

Kamloops 2011 Western Canada Summer Games

KAMLOOPS 2011 WESTERN CANADA SUMMER GAMES SOCIETY EARNS PRAISE

Kamloops, BC– Chefs de Mission and Western Canada Games Council converged in Kamloops recently to review the planning progress for the Kamloops 2011 Western Canada Summer Games.

Chris Graham, Chair for the Western Canada Games Council stated in a note of thanks to the Games Society; “Council and the Chefs de Mission were most impressed with the level of detailed information provided this far in advance of the Games. We all left with a sense that the Games are being well managed and that Kamloops will be ready to stage an impressive Games in 2011. “

The three day M1 Conference included a tour of the Games venues, organized by Sport Coordinator, Vincent Lafontaine. This included the world class facilities at the Tournament Capital Centre and Thompson Rivers University. The progress reporting was rounded off with presentations by individual Directors and staff, providing opportunities for feedback and addressing any potential challenges.

Mayor Peter Milobar welcomed the Mission members on May 26th at a banquet hosted in their honor. He spoke of the City’s commitment to supporting the success of the Games at all levels and his pride in the tremendous volunteer force within the City.

“The M‐1 meetings were an excellent opportunity to gauge just where we are in our preparation,” states Henry Pejril, President of the Kamloops 2011 WCSG Society. “Our presentations highlighted the experience and competency of our directors, the quality of our staff, the quality of our facilities and the outstanding support from the City, the Province and TRU. “

The Kamloops 2011 Western Canada Summer Games are considered a segue into the Canada Games and ultimately the Paralympics and Olympics. They provide aspiring athletes with the opportunity to experience all the elements of multi‐sport competition and to see firsthand the level of dedication required to make it to the podium.

British Columbia Lottery Corporation is the presenting sponsor for the Kamloops 2011 Western Canada Summer Games with core funding provided by the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Healthy Living and Sport and by the City of Kamloops. For more information about the Games check out the website at www.2011wcsg.ca.

Media Contact - Larry Reid

Phone: 250-372-1157 or Email: info@2011wcsg.ca

Tourism Kamloops Double Dog Dare Campaign Heats Up

Kamloops, B.C.; The Tourism Kamloops Double Dog Dare campaign is well underway and it going to heat up even more in June.

“So far, our Double Dog Dare campaign, featuring TV Personality, Meteorologist and Kamloops’ Home Town Boy, Mark Madryga, has garnered a lot of positive attention” says Tourism Kamloops’ CEO Ms. Lee Morris. “People have been visiting the Tourism Kamloops website and voting every day for the top three challenges they’d like to see Mark Madryga do this summer.”

These challenges range from a Walk-on Role in Project X Theatre Productions’ presentation of the Rocky Horror Show this summer and robbing the ‘2141’ steam locomotive to hand feeding the wolves at the BC Wildlife Park and mutton busting.

The campaign launched with 12 challenges and now the field is going to start to narrow to heat up the competition. Starting Monday, June 7, the bottom two voted for challenges will come off leaving a Top 10, followed the next week by two more for a Top 8 and finally on June 21 another two exiting making way for the Top 6 to fight it out for Top 3 status. The Top 3 voted for challenges will then be done by Mark Madryga the final weekend of July.

“The campaign has brought some great attention to Kamloops and the staggering variety of activities and events we have in our city,” says Ms. Morris. “It is our goal to bring awareness to www.tourismkamloops.com where visitors will find out all they need to know about planning an exciting getaway in Kamloops this summer.”

Early indications show an average 85% increase in visits to the Tourism Kamloops website, attributed to a strategic marketing plan including the Double Dog Dare campaign targeting the Lower Mainland and other key market areas. These increases have driven more interest to all tourism products featured on the website including accommodation, golf product, attractions, nightlife, and more.

For More Information:

Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops

P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247

E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

The 11th Annual BC Tourism Industry Awards

Do you know of a tourism business or individual practicing industry excellence? Be sure to nominate them for one of the eight categories:

1. Best Tourism Marketing Campaign Award

2. The Delta Hotels Environmentally Responsible Tourism Award

3. Forseight Sustainability Award

4. Tourism Media Award

5. WorldHost Customer Service Award

6. Technology in Tourism Award

7. The go2 Employees First Award

8. Sport Tourism Community Legacy Award

Find award nomination forms and more details on the BC Tourism Industry Conference website at the link provided.

Best Westerns New Green Rating!

Owners John and Stephanie Hampel are pleased to announce that they are officially recognized as a 4 Green Key by Canada’s premier Hotel eco-rating program, Green Key Global.

With the completion of the new Best Western Kamloops Hotel we are pleased to be recognized for our energy and environmentally friendly Hotel” states Tim Rodgers, the General Manager.

With our geothermal energy, natural chlorinated pool, energy efficient design and ongoing recycling programs, we feel we are one of the greenest built hotels in Kamloops and are a fine addition to the industry in Kamloops.

The 4 Green Keys rating is a hotel that has shown national industry leadership and commitment to protecting the environment through wide ranging policies and practices. Mature programs that involve management, employees, guests, and the public have shown substantial and measurable results.

CONTACT: Tim Rodgers CHA, Best Western Kamloops Hotel.

Phone: 250-374-7878 or Cell 250-319-5351 - Email: Timsoffice@shawcable.com

Free Admission Every Thursday

The Kamloops Art Gallery has teamed up with BCLC to offer free admission every Thursday from 10am - 9pm!

Click on the link below to see whats showing at the Kamloops Art Gallery.

Free Admission will continue every Thursday until April 8, 2011.

Double Dog Dare wtih Mark Madryga

Tourism Kamloops’ Double Dog Dare!

Kamloops, BC: Fresh off of winning the Innovative Marketing Campaign Award for its "Mark Madryga - Kamloops' Hometown Boy" campaign awarded by the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, Tourism Kamloops will launch one of its most ‘daring’ campaigns yet.

“We’re excited to be launching our Double Dog Dare campaign featuring TV Personality, Meteorologist and Kamloops’ Home Town Boy, Mark Madryga,” said Tourism Kamloops’ CEO Ms. Lee Morris. “The campaign promises to be a lot of fun for people who get the opportunity to not only to see all Kamloops has to offer in recreational outdoor activities and attractions, but to dare Mark Madryga to partake in these challenges by voting on-line.”

These adventures range from a Walk-on Role in Project X Theatre Productions’ presentation of the Rocky Horror Show this summer and robbing the ‘2141’ steam locomotive to hand feeding the wolves at the BC Wildlife Park and mutton busting.

The campaign will launch province wide on Monday, May 10 on GlobalTV BC, where Mark Madryga is the morning news’ senior meteorologist. In addition, an on-line marketing strategy will commence utilizing E-blasts, Facebook, Twitter and more.

People will go to the Tourism Kamloops website and select three Double Dog Dare Challenges they want to see Mark do, with Mark doing the challenges later this summer. “We see this generating a lot of buzz,” says Ms. Morris. “The key benefit for us will be people going to tourismkamloops.com to vote, and then while they’re there, to look further into how great our city is for a getaway and a vacation.”

Tourism Kamloops has seen continual growth in their website visits in 2010 which can be directly attributed to increased marketing efforts to the Lower Mainland and other key market areas. These increases have driven more interest to all tourism products featured on the website including accommodation, golf product, attractions, nightlife and more.

For More Information: Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops

P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247 E:lee@tourismkamloops.com

Race the Ranch a Success!

By MARK HUNTER Daily News Sports Reporter

Henry Pejril is hoping the success of Sunday’s Race the Ranch is a sign of things to come for the Kamloops Performance Cycling Centre.

Pejril, the organizer of the downhill mountain-bike race, said the event has drawn more competitors in each of its four runnings. Around 360 bikers — in more than 15 categories — took part in the race.

The event was held at the Kamloops Bike Ranch, which is now the Kamloops Performance Cycling Centre. The KPCC includes trails for downhill, cross-country and cyclocross riders, as well as a recently improved BMX track and freestyle jumps.

The success of Race the Ranch is what Pejril hopes to see all season and in the future as well. The KPCC is hoping to improve the trails and gear them towards more competitive riders.

“When the bike park was built, it was built as a free-ride recreational park,” Pejril said. “Since then, we’ve been holding races in for years, so Cycling B.C. was interested in having an Interior centre for training.

“We’re turning it into a race venue, not just a free-ride place.”

The BMX track has been holding races for much of April, while the cyclocross season usually runs in the fall.

The Race the Ranch is the first downhill race of the season in B.C. — because of the climate in Kamloops, it’s perfect at this time of year. Pejril said that lots of riders came from all corners of B.C., along with Alberta and Ontario.

“Last year, we were the highest numbers in the province for downhill, and I would say we’ve got a pretty good chance for that this year,” Pejril said. “We’re early-season, we’re central in the province — the central location really helps.”

The KPCC’s goal is to become the main spot for elite riders to train between races. Already, Pejril said, provincial teams have come to Kamloops to train.

“The course is wired for downhill and there’s been a few clinics here already,” he said. “We have (timing) transmitters at the top and bottom so riders can time themselves as they go through training runs.”

Of course, there’s still plenty of work to do. In order to become better suited for cyclocross — where there’s a mass start and various obstacles scattered on the course — some trails would have to be widened to 10 feet.

Along with adding a full trail-marking system, the major work this season will be on the cross-country trails, which won’t be used for any official races this season.

“With all the silt in here, it’s not really sustainable,” said Pejril. “When you have a couple hundred riders and they go over it four or five times, it just kills it — turns the silt into moon powder.

“We’re going to re-do the trails to start up next year.”

mhunter@kamloopsnews.ca

2010 Olympic Gold Medalist coming to Kamloops - Denny and Jay Morrison will visit April 11 and 12

2010 Olympic Gold Medalist Speed Skater Denny Morrison and his brother Jay are confirmed to visit Kamloops on Sunday, April 11th and Monday, April 12th. The public is welcome to come out and meet them at 2:00 pm on Sunday at the McArthur Island Sports Centre - Curling Lounge. There will be a number of short speeches followed by an autograph signing and a chance to see the gold medal up close until 3:00 pm. A celebrity race is tentatively planned from 3:00 to 3:15 followed by a chance for speed skating clubs to join the brothers on the ice for a 45 min coaching session utilizing their favourite drills and games. From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm speed skaters will demonstrate speed skaing drills, games and races in a team format. On Monday, April 12th, the Denny and Jay will visit local schools to show their medals and talk of their Olympic Experience. Contact the Kamloops River City Racers Speed Skating Club for more details. Cathy at 250-374-5430 orspeedskatingkamloops@shaw.ca

Project X Theatre Productions - Call for Auditions for the Rocky Horror Show

You helped us select it, and now it’s your chance to take an even bigger role in X Fest 2010.

Project X Theatre Productions is holding auditions for X Fest 2010, the Interior of BC’s only outdoor summer Shakespeare festival! Will you be a part of it?

We are looking for actors of various ages for this year’s productions: Shakespeare’s 12th Night, or What You Will and the camp-cult classic musical, chosen by popular vote, The Rocky Horror Show by Richard O’Brien.

The plays will run in repertory for 3 weeks this summer. Actors will be hired for a 9-week period, 48 hours per week, with rehearsals beginning June 14, 2010. X Fest runs from July 21 to August 14, 2010 in Prince Charles Park, downtown Kamloops.

Auditions will take place Sunday March 28 starting at 1pm, Monday March 29 beginning at 5:30pm & Tuesday March 30 starting at 7pm at the classroom of the Pavilion Theatre, 1025 Lorne Street. Actors are asked to memorize and prepare ONE monologue from 12th Night and ONE song from Rocky Horror. The sides are posted on our website, www.projectxtheatre.ca. Actor/musicians are of particular interest.

To book an audition time, please EMAIL Derek at derek@projectxtheatre.ca.

For more information, call Derek at 250-377-7277, or Samantha at 250-377-8818.

Winterlights Celebration Winners!

On March 6, 2010 WinterLights Celebrations honoured thirty-three participating communities from across Canada during the annual WinterLights Celebrations Symposium and Awards Ceremony, held this year in the City of Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island.

At the awards ceremony, the winners were announced in their respective categories, and each participating community received a special recognition for an outstanding program or community feature. As well, six communities were recognized for outstanding achievements in selected criteria, and the special Mentoring Award was presented to the Town of Bay Roberts, Newfoundland & Labrador. The “most appealing community display” award for on-site community exhibits was also presented by Municipal World.

Now into its ninth edition, WinterLights Celebrations is the winter edition of the popular Communities in Bloom program. During the months of November and December, trained volunteer judges evaluated participating communities on the program’s five criteria: Visual Presentation, Festive Season Celebrations, Winter Pleasures, Goodwill Programs and Tourism & Promotion.

Ted Blowes, National Chairman of Communities in Bloom, thanked and congratulated all the participating communities, stating that “In this Olympic year it is gratifying to see the many exciting ways in which proud communities right across Canada are, ‘with both mittens’, celebrating the immensity of our Canadian winters”.

WINNERS PER POPULATION CATEGORY
1 – 7,500: District of Chetwynd, British Columbia
7,500 – 30,000: City of Fort St. John, British Columbia
Over 50,000: City of Kamloops, British Columbia
Winner’s Circle: Town of Happy Valley – Goose Bay, Newfoundland & Labrador

Follow the link provided for more information.

World Masters Athletics Wrap Up

~The City of Kamloops ~

The 2010 World Masters Indoor Championships came to a close this past Saturday after six straight days of competition at the Tournament Capital Centre. Overall, Canada placed second in the medal count with a total of 281 medals, including the two silver medals earned by the City’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Director, Byron McCorkell and Carolynn Boomer with PacificSport.

The 1,400 athletes who participated in the World Masters Championships have been an inspiration to our city with courage to compete and commitment to live active, healthy lifestyles. The athletes were extremely impressed with the venues, hospitality and organization of this year’s World Masters, with some athletes commenting that this has been the best World Masters experience they’ve had. The City would like to congratulate the efforts of the World Masters Championship Board co-chaired by Bob Cowden and Judy Armstrong.

Media Contact: 2010 World Masters Indoor Championships
Bob Cowden
Kamloops Co-Chair
250-377-4586
250-319-2908

World Masters Athletics 2010 - Updates & Results

For those of you looking for World Masters Athletics 2010 results follow the link provided.

World Masters Notes: Falconer wins gold for Kamloops

By MARK HUNTER - Daily News Sports Reporter

The 2010 World Masters Indoor Athletics championships started Monday morning at precisely 8:45, and not long after, Canadian Erin Bevans had won the first gold medal.

Bevans, who hails from Port Moody, B.C., won the men’s 35-39 javelin (800 grams) category. His throw of 61.77 metres was good enough to take gold in the first event of the championships.

All three of the men who made the podium in that event are from Canada — Sharaz Shaikh of Mississauga, Ont., was second after a throw of 49.79m, while Kier Wilson of Sherwood Park, Alta., took bronze with a chuck of 44.47m.

Shortly after Bevans won his medal, William Falconer won Kamloops’ first medal of the championships.

Falconer, 89, was the lone competitor — and therefore finished first — in the men’s 85-89 discus. His golden throw sailed 12.10m.

Among the other Kamloops medalists Monday were Kathy Brand, 67, whose throw of 18.29m left her third in the women’s 65-69 javelin, and 50-year-old Melinda Williamson, who was third in the women’s 50-54 8km cross-country run.

Other local medalists in the men’s 8km race included Lewis Butcher (gold, 75-59), Richard Brewster (silver, 45-49), Jason Ladyman (bronze, 35-39) and Anders Ganstal (bronze, 40-44).

Full results can be found at www.kamloops2010masters.com.

While most of the action is centred around the Tournament Capital Centre, the medal ceremonies are held inside TRU’s Campus Activity Centre.

The ceremonies, which are held on the same day as the finals, are held in the CAC’s atrium area.

There were at least two world records broken Monday.

American Christel Donley set an indoor record in the women’s 75-79 60m hurdles with a time of 14.22. Another American, Aaron Thigpen, broke the men’s 45-49 60m record Monday, finishing in a time of 7.02 seconds.

The media co-ordinator for the championships is Tracy Watson, a former Daily News sports reporter, who is in charge of keeping all the media folks happy.

The American masters team also brought its media chair, Bob Weiner. Weiner also is scheduled to compete in the 800m, 1,500m and 3,000m, but may have to miss due to his duties as media chair.

Weiner worked at the White House during the Bill Clinton administration as a communications director for several committees. His Washington, D.C.-based business, Robert Weiner Associates (RWA), works out of an office situated at 1750 Pennsylvania Ave., which is less than two blocks away from the White House

World's Fastest Skiers Compete in Velocity Challenge at Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks, BC – There won’t be any speeding tickets handed out as 40 of the fastest skiers on the planet reach speeds in excess of 175 km/h at the 2010 Subaru Velocity Challenge. North America’s only speed skiing event will rocket ahead this March at Sun Peaks Resort in the BC Interior with the support of a national sponsor, Subaru Canada, and local presenter, Zimmer Autosport.

“This is the one time each year at Sun Peaks where speed is not only encouraged, but rewarded,” said Adam Earle, Subaru Velocity Challenge Organizer. “While there won’t be any traffic police lining the course, race officials will be closely monitoring the safety of the racers as they get progressively faster over the course of this thrilling race. It is a wild sight watching skiers fly past at nearly 175km/h.”

With Subaru Canada and Zimmer Autosport backing the event for the third year and the event celebrating its 21st anniversary, organizers expect to see growth in its local and international appeal.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be involved with the Velocity Challenge for a third year,” said Rob Zimmer, President of Zimmer Autosport. “We’re fortunate to have such a fantastic facility to host this world-class event and are excited to showcase our athletes, and to support our community and its events.”

Granted FIS World Cup status for the eighth year, racers from 10 countries will compete at the 2010 event. ,p> “We start preparing the Headwalls course over a month before the race is held, building up snow at the start finish areas, as well as grooming the course with a winch-cat groomer specifically designed for grooming steep pitches like the Headwalls,” outlined Jamie Tattersfield, director of mountain operations for Sun Peaks Resort Corporation. “It’s a steep and challenging course with an average grade of 55 per cent that requires special attention from the most experienced members of our team.”

The steep and treacherous Headwalls Speed Track also includes several rolls that will likely cause racers to become airborne during their controlled free-fall descent, creating some exciting moments for those watching the race. “Imagine a ski racer wearing a Darth Vader-like helmet, a bright red skin-tight rubber suit and 240 centimetre long skis flying past you at over 175 km/h “two feet off the ground,” said Earle. “Combine that with the sound the racers make as they cut their way through the air, and it becomes a spectacle not to be missed.”

The race may be viewed from the Sunburst Restaurant at mid-mountain and accessed by the Sunburst Express chairlift.

For more information about the event, visit www.velocitychallenge.com or www.sunpeaksresort.com.

El Nino has struck Tobiano like never before!

El Nino 2010!

Article from Tobiano Golf Kamloops, BC

The entire course is in great condition and will be fully open to play on regular greens with power cart use for only $90.00 per person.

Tobiano will be planned to open on the following weekends:

February 27 & 28 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee
March 6 & 7 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee
March 13 & 14 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee
March 19 & 20 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee
March 26, 27 & 28 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee

Kamloops Makes the Podium for GamesTown 2010

Kamloops, B.C. – The City of Kamloops has been named the Bronze medal winner of GamesTown 2010; an announcement made by Premier Gordon Campbell today at a special event hosted by the Province of British Columbia at the Tournament Capital Centre.

“I am very proud of our community,” said Mayor Peter Milobar. “The citizens rallied to get Kamloops into the top 10 and their stories and spirit earned us the honour of being a medal winner in GamesTown 2010. Kamloops has and always will be a community that supports sport and healthy living.”

In addition to earning the honour of being named the Bronze medal winner of GamesTown 2010, the community will receive a $25,000 cash award to put towards sport or healthy living facility improvements, two (2) pairs of tickets to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games and one (1) pair of tickets to the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games.

Beginning Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at 2:00 p.m., the City will be staging an online contest for the residents of Kamloops to enter to win the Olympic or Paralympic tickets. Three lucky winners will win a pair of tickets to one of the following events:

1 Pair (two tickets total) to the Cross-Country Skiing – Ladies’ 15 km Pursuit Olympic Event

1 Pair (two tickets total) to the Alpine Skiing – Ladies’ Super-G Olympic Event

1 Pair (two tickets total) to the Biathlon – Individual, Men’s and Women’s Paralympic Event

Residents are encouraged to visit www.kamloops.ca/wintickets and provide their name, address, phone number and email address to enter the contest. For residents who do not have access to the Internet, they can enter in person at City Hall (7 Victoria Street West) beginning Thursday, January 28, 2010. The contest will close on Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 12 noon and the winners will be contacted and announced shortly after 2:00 p.m. Full contest rules will apply and are available to view at www.kamloops.ca/wintickets.

The top three finalists for GamesTown 2010 were chosen by a celebrity judge panel made up of Nancy Greene Raine, Steve Podborski, Simon Whitfield, Dr. Art Hister and Dr. Rhonda Low. Princeton and Dawson Creek were named Gold and Silver medal winners of GamesTown 2010 respectively.

For more information on GamesTown 2010, visit www.gamestown2010.ca.

Media Contact:
Jeff Putnam, Sport Development & Business Operations Manager
City of Kamloops
250-828-3700
jputnam@kamloops.ca

America's Travel Weekly Readers Choose Rocky Mountaineer!

~ Article from Rocky Mountaineer Vacations ~

AMERICA’S TRAVEL WEEKLY READERS CHOOSE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER AS ‘BEST RAIL VACATION’

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (January 14, 2010) – Rocky Mountaineer, Canada’s acclaimed rail experience, has recently been recognized as ‘Best Rail Vacation’ in the seventh annual Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards. Known as the leading US publication for the travel industry, Travel Weekly presents the Readers’ Choice awards to industry members who have achieved excellence in product and service during the year. Rocky Mountaineer representatives accepted the award at this year’s seventh annual Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards gala event at the Plaza Hotel in New York last month along with other travel and tourism members.

“We are honoured to be recognized by readers of the biggest travel trade publication in the United States,” says Bob Nicholas, Vice President, Sales of Rocky Mountaineer. “This acknowledgment is a great way to start our 2010 season as we celebrate our 20th anniversary and unveil our new branding to the world.”

The Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards are awarded to travel industry professionals who have exhibited excellence during the year in 58 categories from airline, car, hospitality, rail, tour, cruise, destination and theme park organizations. The winners will be published in the January 2010 edition of Travel Weekly as well as at www.travelweekly.com.

Rocky Mountaineer offers unique Canadian vacation packages and four spectacular rail routes through British Columbia and Alberta. Best known for the internationally-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, a two-day, all daylight rail journey through Canada’s West and the Canadian Rockies, the company also offers a three-hour experience between North Vancouver and Whistler, BC. Since its inception in 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has grown to become the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America and welcomed its one millionth guest in 2008. In 2009, Rocky Mountaineer was named one of the “World’s Greatest Trips” by National Geographic and ranked as the number one train experience in the world by The Society of American Travel Writers.

Media Contact:

Nancy Dery
Manager, Communications
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver, British Columbia
Phone: (604) 606-8419
Email: ndery@rockymountaineer.com

Rose Chase
Travel Media Relations Specialist
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver, British Columbia
Phone: (604) 606-8473
Email: rchase@rockymountaineer.com

Go Directly to Kamloops, Do Not Pass Go

Kamloops, BC: Monopoly fever goes Canada wide as cities battle to earn their place on the new Monopoly Canada game board. Hasbro is launching a nation wide vote to find our nation’s 22 favourite cities that will be included on the new MONOPOLY Canada game board.

Kamloops is on a list of 65 great cities across Canada that have been selected to vie for a spot on the new game board. Tourism Kamloops is launching its own campaign to market the vote process to as many people as possible. “The value of being on the board can not be understated in terms of brand awareness.” says Lee Morris, CEO. “The name of the game is getting your brand front of mind for travellers when they are thinking of interesting and fun places for vacations and getaways.”

Beginning January 11, 2010, MONOPOLY fans can visit www.monopolyvote.ca to cast votes for their favourite Canadian cities to help create a MONOPOLY Canada game board. Canadians are invited to cast their ballots for three of the 65 cities each day of the vote, which will be open until February 7, 2010. The city that receives the most votes will be placed on the highest rent property traditionally held by Boardwalk.

“MONOPOLY is the world’s most popular branded board game and it transcends cultural barriers,” said Michelle Sinclair, Brand Manager for MONOPOLY. “More than 750 million people have played the game since it was first introduced 75 years ago and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down.”

Tourism Kamloops will be encouraging people to vote primarily through an on-line digital marketing campaign and directing them to either the monopolyvote.ca page or to a page on the TK website that will link them to the Hasbro vote site. Facebook and Twitter are perfectly suited to reach an enormous amount of people in a short period of time and these social networks will be utilized to generate interest and votes.

For More Information: Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247 E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Kamloops is in Gamestown Top 10

Article from the Kamloops This Week - Tim Petruk

Kamloops is one step closer to winning the $100,000 Gamestown 2010 top prize.

More than 100 communities across the province took part in the competition and the Tournament Capital was among 10 finalists announced Tuesday.

“We’re totally ecstatic,” said Jeff Putnam, sport development and business operations manager with the City of Kamloops.

“We’ve been working really hard on this both as a community and as a municipality.

“This is a big first step.”

Putnam said Kamloops had a definite upper hand in the preliminary round of the competition, during which communities submitted “healthy living pledges” and attempted to garner votes in their respective population categories.

“As a city, we’ve definitely embraced the spirit of 2010, which is what it’s all about,” he said.

“Showing your healthy living and sport was easy for Kamloops because we’re already doing it with the Tournament Capital program.”

Gamestown 2010 spokeswoman Trish Fougner said there’s still more for River City residents to do.

“The Top 10 communities right now will have an opportunity to rally for the next [two] days,” she said, explaining that a midnight Jan. 7 deadline has been set up for all entries.

“The judges are looking for creativity, enthusiasm, sport, focuses on healthy living, spirit, the Games.

“Maybe it’s a big event, maybe it’s a small event.

“Now that you know you’re in the Top 10, now you think, ‘OK, I’m really going to go for it.’

“So maybe there’s something they can put together in the next [two] days.”

Putnam said he’s sure the community support will keep coming.

“We’ve been getting half a dozen pledges every day up until [Monday, when first-round voting closed],” he said.

“I think people will continue to do that.”

But Putnam said he hopes to see more support from local schools.

“One thing I would love to see is all of the schools in School District 73 to go about entering a pledge on behalf of the school,” he said.

“And we’ll continue to encourage people to make sure that, if they’ve got any entries they haven’t submitted, to do so prior to the deadline.”

Fougner said the list of 10 will be whittled down to three by the end of the month, with a winner announced shortly after.

The winning community will receive $100,000 to upgrade sports or recreational facilities. The runners-up will receive $50,000 and $25,000 respectively.

Other communities in the Top 10 are Houston, Princeton, Smithers, Quesnel, Salmon Arm, Dawson Creek, Prince George, Kelowna and Coquitlam.

For more information or to submit an entry, log on to gamestown2010.ca.

Sun Peaks Snow Bum Arrives!!

Article taken from Sun Peaks Resort website - see link below.

As the Best Job in the World wrapped up in Queensland, Australia on New Years Eve, the winner of a promotion inspired by the Queensland video contest arrived at a BC Interior Ski Resort.

29 year old Thiago Lucena from São Paul, Brazil landed at Kamloops Airport today to begin a three-month stay at Sun Peaks Resort as their official Snow Bum. His role? To ski, snowboard, dogsled, snowmobile, attend resort events, and then tell the world about his experiences using social media avenues such as Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. Thiago will also be writing blogs for www.snowbumcanada.com.

A crowd of journalists, resort representatives and curious onlookers were on hand to welcome Thiago as he stepped into the airport terminal off a flight from Vancouver.

“It’s exciting to be here! I never expected to be treated like a celebrity,” said Thiago at Kamloops Airport. “This is going to be an incredible e “We start preparing the Headwalls course over a month before the race is held, building up snow at the start finish areas, as well as grooming the course with a winch-cat groomer specifically designed for grooming steep pitches like the Headwalls,” outlined Jamie Tattersfield, director of mountain operations for Sun Peaks Resort Corporation. “It’s a steep and challenging course with an average grade of 55 per cent that requires special attention from the most experienced members of our team.”

The steep and treacherous Headwalls Speed Track also includes several rolls that will likely cause racers to become airborne during their controlled free-fall descent, creating some exciting moments for those watching the race. “Imagine a ski racer wearing a Darth Vader-like helmet, a bright red skin-tight rubber suit and 240 centimetre long skis flying past you at over 175 km/h “two feet off the ground,” said Earle. “Combine that with the sound the racers make as they cut their way through the air, and it becomes a spectacle not to be missed.”

The race may be viewed from the Sunburst Restaurant at mid-mountain and accessed by the Sunburst Express chairlift.

For more information about the event, visit www.velocitychallenge.com or www.sunpeaksresort.com.

El Nino has struck Tobiano like never before!

El Nino 2010!

Article from Tobiano Golf Kamloops, BC

The entire course is in great condition and will be fully open to play on regular greens with power cart use for only $90.00 per person.

Tobiano will be planned to open on the following weekends:

February 27 & 28 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee
March 6 & 7 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee
March 13 & 14 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee
March 19 & 20 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee
March 26, 27 & 28 - Tee Times - 10am - 12pm - split tee

Kamloops Makes the Podium for GamesTown 2010

Kamloops, B.C. – The City of Kamloops has been named the Bronze medal winner of GamesTown 2010; an announcement made by Premier Gordon Campbell today at a special event hosted by the Province of British Columbia at the Tournament Capital Centre.

“I am very proud of our community,” said Mayor Peter Milobar. “The citizens rallied to get Kamloops into the top 10 and their stories and spirit earned us the honour of being a medal winner in GamesTown 2010. Kamloops has and always will be a community that supports sport and healthy living.”

In addition to earning the honour of being named the Bronze medal winner of GamesTown 2010, the community will receive a $25,000 cash award to put towards sport or healthy living facility improvements, two (2) pairs of tickets to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games and one (1) pair of tickets to the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games.

Beginning Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at 2:00 p.m., the City will be staging an online contest for the residents of Kamloops to enter to win the Olympic or Paralympic tickets. Three lucky winners will win a pair of tickets to one of the following events:

1 Pair (two tickets total) to the Cross-Country Skiing – Ladies’ 15 km Pursuit Olympic Event

1 Pair (two tickets total) to the Alpine Skiing – Ladies’ Super-G Olympic Event

1 Pair (two tickets total) to the Biathlon – Individual, Men’s and Women’s Paralympic Event

Residents are encouraged to visit www.kamloops.ca/wintickets and provide their name, address, phone number and email address to enter the contest. For residents who do not have access to the Internet, they can enter in person at City Hall (7 Victoria Street West) beginning Thursday, January 28, 2010. The contest will close on Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 12 noon and the winners will be contacted and announced shortly after 2:00 p.m. Full contest rules will apply and are available to view at www.kamloops.ca/wintickets.

The top three finalists for GamesTown 2010 were chosen by a celebrity judge panel made up of Nancy Greene Raine, Steve Podborski, Simon Whitfield, Dr. Art Hister and Dr. Rhonda Low. Princeton and Dawson Creek were named Gold and Silver medal winners of GamesTown 2010 respectively.

For more information on GamesTown 2010, visit www.gamestown2010.ca.

Media Contact:
Jeff Putnam, Sport Development & Business Operations Manager
City of Kamloops
250-828-3700
jputnam@kamloops.ca

America's Travel Weekly Readers Choose Rocky Mountaineer!

~ Article from Rocky Mountaineer Vacations ~

AMERICA’S TRAVEL WEEKLY READERS CHOOSE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER AS ‘BEST RAIL VACATION’

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (January 14, 2010) – Rocky Mountaineer, Canada’s acclaimed rail experience, has recently been recognized as ‘Best Rail Vacation’ in the seventh annual Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards. Known as the leading US publication for the travel industry, Travel Weekly presents the Readers’ Choice awards to industry members who have achieved excellence in product and service during the year. Rocky Mountaineer representatives accepted the award at this year’s seventh annual Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards gala event at the Plaza Hotel in New York last month along with other travel and tourism members.

“We are honoured to be recognized by readers of the biggest travel trade publication in the United States,” says Bob Nicholas, Vice President, Sales of Rocky Mountaineer. “This acknowledgment is a great way to start our 2010 season as we celebrate our 20th anniversary and unveil our new branding to the world.”

The Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards are awarded to travel industry professionals who have exhibited excellence during the year in 58 categories from airline, car, hospitality, rail, tour, cruise, destination and theme park organizations. The winners will be published in the January 2010 edition of Travel Weekly as well as at www.travelweekly.com.

Rocky Mountaineer offers unique Canadian vacation packages and four spectacular rail routes through British Columbia and Alberta. Best known for the internationally-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, a two-day, all daylight rail journey through Canada’s West and the Canadian Rockies, the company also offers a three-hour experience between North Vancouver and Whistler, BC. Since its inception in 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has grown to become the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America and welcomed its one millionth guest in 2008. In 2009, Rocky Mountaineer was named one of the “World’s Greatest Trips” by National Geographic and ranked as the number one train experience in the world by The Society of American Travel Writers.

Media Contact:

Nancy Dery
Manager, Communications
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver, British Columbia
Phone: (604) 606-8419
Email: ndery@rockymountaineer.com

Rose Chase
Travel Media Relations Specialist
Rocky Mountaineer
Vancouver, British Columbia
Phone: (604) 606-8473
Email: rchase@rockymountaineer.com

Go Directly to Kamloops, Do Not Pass Go

Kamloops, BC: Monopoly fever goes Canada wide as cities battle to earn their place on the new Monopoly Canada game board. Hasbro is launching a nation wide vote to find our nation’s 22 favourite cities that will be included on the new MONOPOLY Canada game board.

Kamloops is on a list of 65 great cities across Canada that have been selected to vie for a spot on the new game board. Tourism Kamloops is launching its own campaign to market the vote process to as many people as possible. “The value of being on the board can not be understated in terms of brand awareness.” says Lee Morris, CEO. “The name of the game is getting your brand front of mind for travellers when they are thinking of interesting and fun places for vacations and getaways.”

Beginning January 11, 2010, MONOPOLY fans can visit www.monopolyvote.ca to cast votes for their favourite Canadian cities to help create a MONOPOLY Canada game board. Canadians are invited to cast their ballots for three of the 65 cities each day of the vote, which will be open until February 7, 2010. The city that receives the most votes will be placed on the highest rent property traditionally held by Boardwalk.

“MONOPOLY is the world’s most popular branded board game and it transcends cultural barriers,” said Michelle Sinclair, Brand Manager for MONOPOLY. “More than 750 million people have played the game since it was first introduced 75 years ago and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down.”

Tourism Kamloops will be encouraging people to vote primarily through an on-line digital marketing campaign and directing them to either the monopolyvote.ca page or to a page on the TK website that will link them to the Hasbro vote site. Facebook and Twitter are perfectly suited to reach an enormous amount of people in a short period of time and these social networks will be utilized to generate interest and votes.

For More Information: Ms. Lee Morris CEO, Tourism Kamloops P: 250.372.8000 C: 250.319.4247 E: lee@tourismkamloops.com

Kamloops is in Gamestown Top 10

Article from the Kamloops This Week - Tim Petruk

Kamloops is one step closer to winning the $100,000 Gamestown 2010 top prize.

More than 100 communities across the province took part in the competition and the Tournament Capital was among 10 finalists announced Tuesday.

“We’re totally ecstatic,” said Jeff Putnam, sport development and business operations manager with the City of Kamloops.

“We’ve been working really hard on this both as a community and as a municipality.

“This is a big first step.”

Putnam said Kamloops had a definite upper hand in the preliminary round of the competition, during which communities submitted “healthy living pledges” and attempted to garner votes in their respective population categories.

“As a city, we’ve definitely embraced the spirit of 2010, which is what it’s all about,” he said.

“Showing your healthy living and sport was easy for Kamloops because we’re already doing it with the Tournament Capital program.”

Gamestown 2010 spokeswoman Trish Fougner said there’s still more for River City residents to do.

“The Top 10 communities right now will have an opportunity to rally for the next [two] days,” she said, explaining that a midnight Jan. 7 deadline has been set up for all entries.

“The judges are looking for creativity, enthusiasm, sport, focuses on healthy living, spirit, the Games.

“Maybe it’s a big event, maybe it’s a small event.

“Now that you know you’re in the Top 10, now you think, ‘OK, I’m really going to go for it.’

“So maybe there’s something they can put together in the next [two] days.”

Putnam said he’s sure the community support will keep coming.

“We’ve been getting half a dozen pledges every day up until [Monday, when first-round voting closed],” he said.

“I think people will continue to do that.”

But Putnam said he hopes to see more support from local schools.

“One thing I would love to see is all of the schools in School District 73 to go about entering a pledge on behalf of the school,” he said.

“And we’ll continue to encourage people to make sure that, if they’ve got any entries they haven’t submitted, to do so prior to the deadline.”

Fougner said the list of 10 will be whittled down to three by the end of the month, with a winner announced shortly after.

The winning community will receive $100,000 to upgrade sports or recreational facilities. The runners-up will receive $50,000 and $25,000 respectively.

Other communities in the Top 10 are Houston, Princeton, Smithers, Quesnel, Salmon Arm, Dawson Creek, Prince George, Kelowna and Coquitlam.

For more information or to submit an entry, log on to gamestown2010.ca.

Sun Peaks Snow Bum Arrives!!

Article taken from Sun Peaks Resort website - see link below.

As the Best Job in the World wrapped up in Queensland, Australia on New Years Eve, the winner of a promotion inspired by the Queensland video contest arrived at a BC Interior Ski Resort.

29 year old Thiago Lucena from São Paul, Brazil landed at Kamloops Airport today to begin a three-month stay at Sun Peaks Resort as their official Snow Bum. His role? To ski, snowboard, dogsled, snowmobile, attend resort events, and then tell the world about his experiences using social media avenues such as Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. Thiago will also be writing blogs for www.snowbumcanada.com.

A crowd of journalists, resort representatives and curious onlookers were on hand to welcome Thiago as he stepped into the airport terminal off a flight from Vancouver.

“It’s exciting to be here! I never expected to be treated like a celebrity,” said Thiago at Kamloops Airport. “This is going to be an incredible experience. When I go to Chile and Argentina, it’s only 10 days of skiing… This is 3 months!”

Tourism Sun Peaks’ President Christopher Nicolson says the Snow Bum contest was inspired by the Queensland promotion and it’s very fitting that Thiago arrives at Sun Peaks for HIS dream job, after Ben Southall wrapped up his year as the Island Caretaker in Australia. “After the build up over phone and email, it’s great to meet such a fantastic individual in person.”