HELLO FROM THE BLBCA

Welcome to the beautiful colours of fall. We definitely experienced an interesting summer, for many BC residents it was challenging and in some cases catastrophic. Our thoughts are with those who suffered loss due to the intense wildfire season we experienced in some parts of the interior of BC.

As we turn our gaze towards fall and a hopefully snowy winter, we are hopeful for a return to some degree of normalcy. The BLBCA recently completed a website makeover, we are excited about the new look and would like to thank MediaOne for their help. One of the new features of the website are podcasts. If you have a few spare minutes check out the candid conversations with lodge owners, guests and other industry experts. Podcasts can be found at Mountain Escapes - Backcountry Podcasts.

Take good care.

Sincerely, Brad Harrison
Executive Director, Backcountry Lodges of BC Association

WE'RE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE LAUNCH OF MOUNTAIN ESCAPES | A BACKCOUNTRY PODCAST

The BLBCA is excited to announce Mountain Escapes | A Backcountry Podcast! Our host and Executive Director, Brad Harrison, connects backcountry enthusiasts with the stewards and caretakers of lodges throughout British Columbia. Mountain Escapes | A Backcountry Podcast also includes a segment aptly titled My Backcountry Story where we hear from members of the community who share their personal experiences in the backcountry.

Listen to our inaugural episode featuring a conversation with lodge owner, Jasmin Caton of Valhalla Mountain Touring located near New Denver, BC. To listen, click here to tune in on your favourite podcast platform and hit subscribe so that you never miss an episode!

NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION 

September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the first-ever national holiday to honour the Survivors of Canadian residential institutions and those who never made it home. It is a day to call upon all of those who can effect change to take action to advance reconciliation in Canada.

Use this day as a time of reflection to take an honest look at current Canadian reality, step forward as a witness to the hard truths, and accept responsibility to learn and change. Reconciliation is not just the responsibility of government–it is a responsibility that belongs to all Canadians.

This may present itself as a day of quiet reflection or participation in a community event. Here are a few ways to honour the day:

• Read the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
• Show your support by wearing an orange shirt
• Support Indigenous businesses and artists (view Indigenous Tourism BC's database of Indigenous tourism businesses)
• Make a donation to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society