My interview with the 2015 BC Ambassador Judges

All along I feel that  I was one of the few candidates who wasn't quite so nervous for the interview with the judges. Although, the interview did rank quite high points wise accounting for 70 possible points and lasting 20 minutes. It still didn't phase me all that much. As  I said to the second last candidate who hung out with me while we waited, they've already been judging us this entire time. So what is the big deal really? I knew that if I went into the interview relaxed and not over thinking it, I could be my genuine self and portray myself as honestly as possible. 

When I walked into the room I shook hands with the three judges and submitted my two Impromtu questions to our head judge which were as follows

1. What words do you live by and do they align with your life goals? 
2. How do you define Success? 

After that I sat on a chair in the middle of the room facing the table of three judges. Some of the questions I remember them asking me included what is the Tourism motto for the Province which was easy - "Super Natural British Columbia." Also they asked me questions about climate change and perhaps it included what I would do. Which was pretty funny as I had literally been asked that very question during my Summer Toastmasters meeting in July! 

I was also asked this "If you had travel back in time 100 years taking you to 1915 what would you take with you from the current time." To which I replied an atlas because the world has changed so much and I thought it would be the easiest and most logical way to explain it. I also felt that it wouldn't be something that would overwhelm those living in the past. 

Some of my other questions were things like what would I change about the Province today and I said nothing political but rather focused on Social media, as I do feel the Province could use Social media to their advantage when it comes to Marketing our beautiful Province as well as connecting with and reaching out to everyone who lives here. 

Another question included my future goals/aspirations to which I replied that my dream goal was to be a life coach but to have my business centered around Social media. At the very least I would like to attain a career focused in social media. I told them I planned to take Social Media analysis at school through online courses enabling me to have a job when I eventually went to college. I would then take a mix of Social media/Public relation courses as well as leadership and if possible Life Coaching courses. 

I talked about how long I've been passionate about Social media and in particular Youtube. I also said that my back up career could be going into Special FX makeup and posting videos & tutorials online. As I have already established myself as a self-taught Special Fx MUA having even won more than one international Makeup contest. 

Some of the other questions included my intentions for participating in the program, what I got out of the program during my candidacy, what I would change about the program in the future and lastly if I would take on a title if given one. 

The last few questions were the most difficult for me. First they asked me about the current Canadian Federal Election for which I couldn't remember the names of everyone running but made a joke saying no one can seem to get much social media coverage here in Canada with Donald Trump's campaigning and Social media craze. Which made everyone laugh! 

I was also asked what would be an advantage to having me reign over one of my other candidates & what qualities/traits and skills I would bring with me to the team. 

The most difficult question was being asked to chose 3 of the 2015 Candidates to make up the 2015 British Columbia Ambassador team. Which was a tricky question because you could play it so many ways, being diplomatic and not naming yourself, providing a balanced answer and naming yourself alongside two others, or simply describing the best traits you think a team should have over all and honestly naming the three people [even if it's you] who exhibit those qualities. 

After that last question my twenty minutes were up and I was rushed off to the Saloon. As it was now quarter to one with the Luncheon starting at 1 p.m, the question soon became would I make it to lunch???? 

First Morning in Merritt stressing over the Knowledge Exam

My First Official Morning in Merritt

Taking the British Columbia Knowledge Exam on August 12th

Tuesday started in mass confusion and slight chaos when both Tasha and myself passed out with setting an alarm for the morning. #pageantrookie mistake. Luckily Tasha woke up around 10 to 8 a.m roughly just over 20 minute before we had to be ready to go for the day including having everything we may need with us. 

So as I said it was a flurry of activity as we got ready and threw stuff into day bags. Lucky for me I had passed out in my contacts and instead of dealing with it before I just took my entire toiletries bag with me as you never know when you might need to brush your teeth. 


So alas on our journey to the Merritt civic Centre Tasha and I were silent in the car alongside our British Columbia Ambassador coordinators Colleen and Teresa. Naturally it was a mix of nerves for our British Columbia Knowledge exam and being still half asleep. 

When we arrived at the civic Centre we were treated to the official Welcome to the British Columbia Ambassador pageant banner strung up along the front entrance. 


After breakfast which I don't even remember they moved our tables apart and alas it was time for our 3 hour BC exam. Which was what I was always considering to be the most daunting part of the pageant. 


I've never considered myself and in school I typically would struggle with the exams and always felt incredibly stupid. There have only been one or two exams I walked out of feeling good about. So naturally this knowledge exam terrified me from the very start. 


I worked as hard as I could trying to learn the material including attempting to read our study guide once a day sometimes even reading it backwards. I also went through and typed up a historic time line as well as wrote blogs and trivia posts. 

I also used outside material from watching YouTube videos to reading non fiction and fiction books about British Columbia including a BC Bathroom reader and several dear Canada BC based diaries. 


I also wrote flash cards but didn't use them instead using my time to just read the study guide cover to cover as much as possible! Lastly I also made copies of the study guide and used white out and didfill in the blanks. I even created full color sketches of our Provincial coat of arms and flag. I even made knowledge exam vision boards and goal plans. 


So I literally studied harder than ever before!!!! And i walked into the exam absolutely terrified but decided to let the pressure go as soon as we got our exams and simply promised myself i would be proud no matter what so long as i tried my best. 

Slowly one by one My fellow candidates handed their exams in and left the room. Until it was myself and another girl before finally it was just me. After leaving many blanks and simple guesses i eventually reminded myself that i wasn't focusing on horrible pressure and after one last review i declared to myself that i had done my absolute best and handed it In. 

I am extremely proud of how much i accomplished and spoiler i received one of the top 3 highest scores on our exam and was given a medal for my effort. Which was a total shock for me and an extremely proud moment. 


Anyway after I left the exam room I headed straight for my table to finish it before..... 
and you have to tune in for what we did that afternoon! !!

Modern Day First Nations in British Columbia

British Columbia is home to a large, Culturally Diverse and widespread Aboriginal Population

BC's Aboriginal People are called First Nations, which refers to those people who can trace their ancestry to the aboriginal people who inhabited the Province in the 18th century prior to the arrival of European and American immigrants. 

Today BC is home to 203 First Nations bands making up a diverse population of Aboriginal people, spread across the province with each Band having it's own interests and issues as well as unique culture. 

The Aboriginal people are continuing to break ties with the reservation in many ways in an effort to improve their status in both their own communities as well as within the Province. Currently The bands have their own variation of Government such as an election of Band Chiefs and band members who work together  towards improving the quality of Life for their members and are recognized by the Provincial and Federal Governments.

Some big poignant years in recent history for the current British Columbia First Nations people included the Sechelt Indian Band becoming the first Aboriginal Group in BC to gain a Municipal Style of Government in 1986. The year 2000 saw the signing of the Nisga'a Treaty which  was created through negotiation of the Nisga'a Nation, the Provincial and Federal Governments to allow for the  the first Constitutionally Protected Self Governing System in BC. The Nisga'a Nation have dwelled in the Nass area since time immemorial, 

Some of the Modern Day Aboriginal people include Gitxsan, Haida, Nisga'a, Squamish and the South Okanagan is home to the Okanagan People. 

Here in Osoyoos we are home to the Osoyoos Indian Band which are members of the Okanagan Nation who call themselves the Sylix People and are included in Formal Salish Interior  ethnological and linguistic grouping. 

The Osoyoos Indian Band has been led by Chief Clarence Louie and has been since the 1980's when he was first elected chief when he was just 24 years old. Under his leadership the Osoyoos Indian Band Development Corporation was established to help ensure the thriving continuance of the Osoyoos Indian Band. One of the most successful achievements of the OIBDC has been the Creation of Nk'Mip Cellars which was the first Aboriginal owned and Operated Winery in North America. 

Today the Osoyoos Indian Band has 450 members, and controls 32,000 acres (13,000 ha) of land between Osoyoos and Oliver. The band continues to thrive financially under Chief Louie's Guidance with OIBDC currently maintaining nine businesses, including tourism, construction, and recreation companies. 

History of the First Nations in British Columbia

British Columbia has always been home to a diverse population of Aboriginal People 

The Modern History of British Columbia really begins with the history of the First Nations people who have lived and flourished here for over 10,000 years. The First Nations history for BC dates back to the end of the last ice Age where as the ice receded, Sea Levels fluctuated and forests advanced creating a land bridge across the Bering Sea connecting Asia to the New World. Where it is believed that people made the journey from Asia to BC. During this time it is believed that the BC Coastal Region was one of the most densely populated areas in all of North America. 

For thousands of Years in the Pacific Northwest three Prominent First Nation Groups of the Nootka, the Coast Salish, the Kwak'wala people divided the land  between themselves. 

Contributing to the thriving First Nations populations  was the Rich Land and Marine Resources that enabled them to develop Complex Societies as well as create Intricate Aboriginal Artwork that is now internationally acclaimed. 

In the East in the region we now call the British Columbia Rockies, the Kootenay people were the keeper of the land. They Fought fiercely for Possession of the precious hot springs found in the Rock Mountains. The Carrier Nation roamed the interior valleys with the Tsimshians roaming the Northern Coast and the Tlingits Occupying Southern Alaska and Northern BC.  While the Sekani and Beaver people occupied the Eastern Region of the North whilst the Haida lived on Haida Gwaii, which was formerly called the Queen Charlotte Islands. 

The Aboriginal People of BC historically were prosperous with  their way of  life and Society which was organized around Wealth, Possessions and Potlatches. As well as their work with and practices of trading Fur and Salmon. Also they made great use of the gifts of BC found on land such as how they used the current Provincial Tree of BC the Western Red Cedar played a key role in the lives of West Coast Aboriginal People.These two things were just one of the many things that ultimately changed for the Aboriginal People upon first European Contact. 

The Peaceful existence of the Aboriginal People soon changed  when Famous Historical Explorers set foot in British Columbia starting with Captain James Cook  arriving on Nootka Island in the Northwest Coast of Vancouver Island back in 1778. There was also Captain George Vancouver in 1792, and Alexander MacKenzie in 1793 who was the first European to Navigate the Peace River which got its name when a Treaty was signed in 1790 between the Cree and Beaver Nations. 

First Nations Way of life in British Columbia went through radical changes upon the successful exploration of the Province which resulted in the encouragement of people to travel to and eventually immigrate in British Columbia. Soon the Establishment of the first Fort Fort - Fort Saint John came in 1794 Along side the start of the first trading post by the Hudson's Bay Trading Company [HBC] set up in Hudson's Hope up North. 

All of these contributed to what would be the down fall of the flourishing First Nations Society. Although the Hudson's Bay Company was known for their Fair Treatment of the local Natives the trade between the two groups led to the First Nations abandoning their Traditional Home sites in favor of settlements closer to the Forts for improved trading and protection. Living so close to  European Settlers introduced Muskets, Alcohol, and Smallpox to  the Indigenous people of British Columbia.  

Eventually European Missionaries arrived and started changing the traditional way of Life through banning  Potlatches as well as suppressing their Language and Culture. In 1876 the First Nations were made subject to the Federal Indian Act which caused the heavy loss of Ancestral land and regulated every aspect of their life. 

Colonization and land ownership conflicts soon followed, some of which continue to be an ongoing Issue today. 

BC Info Blog #3 ~ The People of BC

The people of British Columbia 

British Columbia is Canada's 3rd most populated Province after Ontario and Quebec. Did you know that as of December 2012 the population of BC was recorded at 4.62 million people. Roughly half of the population reside in the Greater Vancouver area, while the second largest population of people reside around the Southern tip of Vancouver Island near the capital of Victoria. 

British Columbia is home to people from all different origins who celebrate a variety of cultural traditions, speak different languages, and practice a number of different religions. The Diversity of the population continues to grow as BC sees a steady influx of newcomers from around the world. 

Yearly 34,000 immigrants from around the world arrive in BC. 

Over the past 10 years net migration has accounted for 75% of BC's population growth with the natural increase of Births minus deaths accounting for the remaining 25%. 

For instance back in 2008 the government stated that 9.205 immigrants arrived in BC totaling 17.2% of all immigrants to Canada heading to British Columbia. 

Roughly half the population of BC lives in the Greater Vancouver Area and as of 2011 the 10 most Populous Areas included Vancouver City at the most populated city with 2,13,328 million people living there. The other 9 cities included our Capital of Victoria with the 2nd most amount of people with 344, 615 with Kelowna, Abbotsford, Kamloops, Nanaimo, Chilliwack, Prince George, Vernon and Courtney with a total of 55, 213 people.

Since the 2011  consensus the top 10 most commonly spoken languages in BC are English, Chinese including Cantonese and Mandarin, Punjabi, German, Tagalog, French, Korean, Spanish and Farsi. 

Back during the 2006 Census the Top 10 Ethnic Immigrants to travel to BC were Chinese 18%. Canadian 12%, English 11%, East Indian 10%, German 5%, Scottish 4%, Filipino 3%, Italian 2%, Irish 2%, Ukrainian 1%, and Miscellaneous 32%.

British Columbia Fast Facts

British Columbia joined Confederation in 1871 and is Canada's Western most Province. As of 2012 the population of BC was 4.62 million people!

British Columbia Flag

As you can see above is a hand drawn  picture of the British Columbian Flag, please excuse my interesting art skills. Here is a better picture. The Provincial Flag was adopted in 1960 and duplicates the Shield of Arms and it measures five by length and Three by width.

As you can see there is a union jack which symbolizes are Colonial Origins. It is nearly identical to that of the British Flag with the only difference being a Gold Crown in the center.

Below that are wavy blue and silver lines which represent our geographic location between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The setting sun at the bottom can have a number of different symbolic meanings. For instance it could represent the fact that we are the most western province in Canada. Or it could be seen as reflection of the official Latin Motto Phrase for BC which is Splendour Sine Occasu which translates to Splendor without diminishment.  
It can also be seen as a symbolic interpretation of the phrase "The sun never sets... on the British Empire."

Provincial Flower ~ the Dogwood

The Provincial Flower is the Dogwood tree which  became BC'S floral emblem in 1956. This is me posing with a Pink Dogwood tree. These deciduous trees are between 6 to 8 metres high and are considered medium height. The Dogwood flowers between April and May but is also known for it's cluster of bright red berries and brilliant foliage during Autumn.

Here is a picture of a dogwood. Fun Fact: At one time the British Columbia Ambassador Crowns were custom made and incorporated designs using the Dogwood Flower! 

Provincial Bird ~ Stellar's Jay 

The Stellar's Jay became the Province's official Bird on December 17, 1987 and it was voted as the most popular bird by the people of British Columbia. The Stellar's Jay can be found through out the Province and is distinguishable by it's vibrant blue and black colors as well as it's Cheeky, smart and lively personality. 

Here I am posing with a Stellar's Jay at the Osoyoos Desert Centre. At the desert centre a variety of Birds can be seen as well as several other animals.

Provincial Coat of Arms

This is my hand drawing and own interpretation of the Provincial Coat of Arms. The Shield of British Columbia was originally granted by King Edward VII in 1906 with the remaining elements granted by Queen Elizabeth II on October 15, 1987. 

As you can see at the top is the Royal Crest which is a the crowned lion who is wearing a collar of Dogwood flowers, is sitting on of a Golden crown that is perched on top of the golden helmet of Sovereignty. 

Below the lion is the shield which is a duplicate of the Provincial Flag with the Union Jack representing our colonial origins and the blue and Silver wavy lines our geographic location between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. 

Supporting the shield are a Stag and a Ram and each represent the former colonies of Vancouver Island and British Columbia. 

Traditional Heraldic elements are woven into the Coat of Arms through a wreath and mantling which are in Canada's Traditional Colors. Lastly at the bottom of the shield are several dogwoods intertwined with the Latin Motto Splendour Sine Occasu which means Splendor without Diminishment. 

Provincial Gemstone ~ Jade

Jade became an official BC Emblem in 1968. The gemstone consists of mostly nephrite and is mined in many parts of the Province.  British Columbia Jade is prized by Carvers of Fine Jewelry and sculptures. It is of particular value in the Orient. 

Here is a Picture of a Jade Bracelet my Grandparents gave me to the left and a Picture of an actual Jade Gemstone to the left. 

Provincial Fish~Pacific Salmon 

Did you know that the most recent Provincial Symbol was introduced in March of 2013  and it is the Pacific Salmon. The designation of Pacific Salmon as the BC Provincial Fish also includes salmon subspecies of Sockeye, Chinook, Coho, Pink and Chum salmon. As well as  the inclusion of the Steelhead and Cutthroat Trout.To the left is a picture from when I tried some dried salmon that was caught here in Osoyoos To the right is a photo of a BC Salmon. 

Provincial Mammal~Spirit Bear 

In April of 2006 the Spirit Bear (Also called the Kermode Bear) was added to the list of Official BC Symbols. The Spirit Bear is not in fact albino but a Black bear that has white fur due to a rare genetic condition. The greatest concentration of Spirit Bears can be found on the Central and North Coast of British Columbia. Here is a photo of the Bear to the right and a picture of my "White Spirit bear" to the left 

British Columbia's Provincial Tartan 

Here is my Drawing and interpretation of the Provincial Tartan as well as a picture of what it actually looks like. 

The Provincial Tartan was adopted in 1974 and incorporates Five Distinct Colors in the design, with each one having it's own significance. 

BLUE represents the Ocean 

White represents the Dogwood 

Green symbolizes the Forests 

Red is for the Maple leaf 

Gold represents both the Crown and the sun on the BC Shield and the Provincial Flag. 

 Provincial Tree ~ Western Red Cedar 

The Western Red Cedar became the official Tree for BC on February 18, 1988. 

 Historically this evergreen tree has played a key role in the lives of West coast Aboriginal people. Side note I did not take the picture for this 

Legislative Assembly 

The legislative Assembly is found in the Capital of British Columbia which is Victoria and is located on Vancouver Island. Fear not if you aren't able to see the Legislative Assembly in person because there is a fabulous website  where you can take a virtual tour. Not to mention it is the place where you can find Historical References and informational Resources regarding British Columbia. You can also read Assembly Debates or view Archived legislative proceedings on Hansard Television.  It is also the place where you can access Current Bills as well as any revised statutes. 

https://www.leg.bc.ca/

British Columbia Geography 

Here you can witness some more of my fascinating hand drawings with my drawing of the Provincial Outline of BC.   

BC is Canada's western most Province and is located between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. 

The Province is divided up into 7 geographical Regions including Northern BC, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, Vancouver Island, Vancouver, Coast & Mountains, The Thompson Okanagan and the Kootenay Rockies. 

The Capital City of British Columbia is Victoria which is located on Vancouver Island. The First Capital of the Province was New Westminster with it's designation having happened in 1859. 

New Westminster continues to carry this historical honor with it today through it's two different City Mottos which are "The Royal City" and the "First Capital of Canada."                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             The Province shares a border with 3 American states to the south including Idaho, Montana and Washington which is the state next to the local Osoyoos Border crossing. 

To the east is the Province of Alberta. 

Where as you can visit the Northwest and Yukon Territories to the North and If you continue to head Northwest of BC you will eventually find Alaska.

Did you know that British Columbia is Canada's western most Province and joined Confederation in 1871 with a population today of 4.62 Million people . Our current premier is Christy Clark who is the leader of the BC liberal party. She is British Columbia’s second female premier and 35th over all having been sworn into office in 2011. Our current Lieutenant Governor is the honorable Judith Guichon having been the 29th Lieutenant Governor of BC having been sworn in on November 2nd, 2012. The position of Lieutenant Governor simply means the acting Representative of Queen Elizabeth II within the Province of British Columbia. 

British Columbia's Provincial Coat of Arms

British Columbia's Coat of Arms

Firstly this is a picture I drew myself  of the Provincial Coat of Arms so forgive me for my not so great Artistic skills. 

The first BC Coat of Arms was approved in 1906 by King Edward VII with this present version approved by Queen Elizabeth II on October 15th, 1987. 

The Coat of Arms has several important  elements of BC incorporated into it.

At the top of the shield is the royal crest which is a crowned lion who wears a collar of Dogwood Flowers which are the Provincial Flower and it stands upon a Golden Helmet of Sovereignty.
It is interesting to note that Supporting the shield is a stag and a ram who represent the former colonies of Vancouver Island and British Columbia.

Within the shield is a variation of the BC Provincial Flag which I also drew by hand.

As you can see at the top there is a Union Jack and symbolizes our Colonial origins. It is nearly identical to the British Flag with the exception of a crown in the middle.

Below that are wavy Blue and Silver lines which represent our Geographic Location between the Pacific Ocean and the Rock Mountains with a setting sun sitting at the bottom. The setting sun can be viewed as a representation of our position as Canada's Western most Province. Or it can also been seen as symbolic interpretation of the phrase "The sun never sets... on the British Empire."

The sun could also be a reflection of the British Columbia Latin Motto which is Splendour Sine Occasu and translates to Splendor Without Diminishment. The Provincial Latin Motto is represented at the bottom of the coat of Arms seen surrounded by more Dogwood Flowers.


Also seen within British Columbia's Coat of Arms is traditional heraldic elements of a wreath and mantling in Canada's Colors.



When BC first joined confederation in 1871 the Province used a variation of the Royal Crest incorporating the letters BC into the design.  The use of the royal crest through out the Common wealth nations of the Royal British Empire.

It took awhile for British Columbia to identify with any kind of Provincial Coat of Arms. In the 1890's Canon Arthur Beanlands from Victoria set out to encourage the Province to adopt an official coat of Arms and even designed his own idea of what it should look like.

In 1906 King Edward VI granted British Columbia it's first Coat of Arms and it has since gone through several different changes.


Did you know that today there are a few different official versions of the British Columbia Coat of Arms. The honorable Judith Guichon was sworn in as British Columbia's 29th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia back on November 2nd, 2012.

Lastly here is the great seal of British Columbia which is fairly similar to the Provincial Coat of Arms. 

Osoyoos Museum Society - Spring Open House

Today one of the town of the Osoyoos community events Viveka Jensen and I are attending as British Columbia Ambassador Program Candidates is the Osoyoos Museum Society Spring Open House and Fundraiser Launch. This open house will also act as an official Fundraising Launch and information session about the future of the museum including it's eventual move to a new location. 

Today's event (March 28th) is from 12 - 5 p.m with the Welcome Address at 1 p.m. There will be a light lunch and refreshments. The museum will be showcasing a New Military Exhibit, a New Fruit Stand Display, and the Joseph Plaskett Pastel Collection. 

The Osoyoos Museum first became an idea in 1955 and the Osoyoos Museum Society was eventually established in 1963 with the initial Grand Opening of the Museum taking place on June 15th, 1963. For the first few years the Museum was located on Main Street but since 1975 it has called the former Curling Rink next to Gyro Park it's home. The museums current location is 19 Park Place and is home to a over 4,000 items and has collections varying from First Nations, Okanagan Pioneer Life and the Natural History of Osoyoos the surrounding area. Following a referendum between the Citizens of the Town of Osoyoos and the Area "A" Regional District of the Okanagan-Similkameen the Osoyoos Museum Society was approved to purchase a property a property on Main Street to eventually move to. 

The Osoyoos Museum is currently open daily from Tuesday to Friday between 11 a.m and 3 p.m with everyone asked to please include an hour of time for each visit! Prices of admission include $5.00 for adults, $2.00 for Students and children, with anyone under the age of 6 being free. Family rates include 2 adults and 3 children for $10 and Group rates can be prearranged by phoning the office at 250-495-2582. In the future during the Summer Season the museum will extend their days of operation to include Saturdays starting in June and eventually adopt a Monday to Saturday Schedule from 10 a.m to 4 p.m through out July and August. 

Osoyoos Museum 1963 The Mission of the Osoyoos Museum is to collect, preserve, research, document, interpret and exhibit artifacts and archival records of historic significance to the area. In addition to its core mandate, the museum presents educational and outreach programs and provides a place for the community to gather and celebrate its history

The Core Values the Osoyoos Museum & The Osoyoos Museum Society Profess: 

1. Encouraging and celebrating cultural diversity in Osoyoos and  area by emphasizing understanding and respect through an inclusive approach to all activities. 
2. Supporting life-long learning through educational programmes, inspirational exhibits, and opportunities for self-discovery. 
3. Practicing ethical accountability in the management, acquisition, research and interpretation of collections by upholding a commitment to professional museum standards and legal responsibilities. 
4. Creating a venue that is accessible and respective to community partnerships. 

The Osoyoos and District Museum and Archives is operated by the Osoyoos Museum Society and is for the benefit of the citizens of Osoyoos, their guests and visitors. The Museum is operated as a non-profit Society and is a registered charity which is governed by a Board of Directors. The museum itself is managed by a full time curator and part-time assistant as well as help from it's dedicated volunteers. The Museum is a member of the BC Museums Association and Canadian Museums Association. 

International Day of Forests

Today on March 21st it is considered International Day of Forests and has been an Official United Nations event since 2011. Today is a day to celebrate and raise awareness for the importance of all kinds of different forests and trees outside of forests.

The 2015 theme for the International Day of Forests #IntlForestDay is "Forests and climate change - Create a climate smart future." The over all goal today is to address climate change and highlight forest based solutions including sustainable development. 

Did you know that forests cover a third of the Earth's Land mass and are some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems on land & are home to more than 80% of Terrestrial species of Animals, plants, and insects. Roughly 1.6 billion people which includes more than 2,000 indigenous cultures depend on Forests for their survival & livelihood and provide them with things like shelter, jobs, and natural  security. 
Despite the many ecological, economical and social & health benefits  Deforestation accounts for 12 to 20 percent of the global greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.   Ultimately this accounts for 12-20% of Global greenhouse gas emissions.  

Ways that you can participate are by Joining the global celebration of forests on social media by following us on twitter @UNDESA #IntlForestDay and #action2015. You can also connect with us on Facebook.com/ joinUNDESA. You can get involved by creating your own International Forest Day exhibit on the lead up to the Day by using the design material available and by using the hashtag #IntlForestDay on social media.

World Water Day 2015

"A drop of water is flexible. A drop of water is powerful. A drop of water is in demand." 

Today on March the 22nd it is World Water Day and has been recognized for the past 22 years by the United Nations after they designated the first World Water Day on March 22nd in 1993. Water is one of the fundamental human needs in order to insure survival and at the core of building sustainable development. 

World water day is a day to celebrate water. It's a day to raise awareness about water. It's a day to prepare for how we manage and utilize water in the future. It's a day to make a difference for those people around the world who are suffering from Water related issues

The 2015 World Water Day theme is Water and sustainable development and about how water links to all the areas we need to consider to create a future we want.

Water is HEALTH - Clean hands can save your life

Water is NATURE - Ecosystems lie at the heart of the Global Water cycle 

Water is URBANIZATION - Every week, one million people move into cities 

Water is INDUSTRY - More water is used to manufacture a car than to fill a swimming pool 

Water is ENERGY - Water and Energy are inseparable friends 

Water is FOOD - To produce two steaks you need 15,000 liters of water

Water is Equality - Every day women spend millions of hours carrying water 

How you can make a difference: 

Using Social media such as twitter and Facebook on 

22 March is #WorldWaterDay. Use #WaterIs to share messages about #Water & #Sustainability @UN_Water

Canada Water Week 

During the third week of March Canada hosts  a week long celebration of Water from Coast to coast to coincide with World Water Day on March 22nd. Canada water week was started 5 years ago The Gordon Foundation,WWF Canada and Living Lakes Canada to help celebrate the unique and passionate relationships Canadians have with water. To join in on Canada water week celebrations use the follow hashtag on social media ‪#‎canh2o_events‬ 

Water is very important to British Columbia including an important part of it's History. Did you know that parts of British Columbia are surrounded by the Pacific Ocean? The Pacific Ocean is represented on our Flag and our coat of arms by 4 wavy Blue lines. The Pacific Ocean is also represented on the British Columbia Provincial Tartan with the color blue symbolizing the Ocean. Our provincial fish - the Pacific Salmon refers to both Salmon and trout species that are native to BC Waters. 

One of the important things that water  represents for British Columbia is a valuable Natural Resource and helps make is so that  BC is Canada's third largest generator of Hydro electricity and through out the years damming projects helped turn Rivers into lakes. 

British Columbia has a water rich geography outside of it's Coastal shores and is home to thousands of Lakes, rivers, straights and inlets. The coastline stretches for more than 27,000 kilometers and includes Deep inlets, bays, and harbors. The lowest point in BC is Sea Level - Pacific Ocean, the largest River is the Fraser River (1368 km) and the largest lake is the Williston Lake(1761 km.) .  
The Port of Vancouver is the largest Canadian Port and the most diverse Port in all of North America.  

BC is known as the land of Rivers and lakes most of which drain into the Pacific Ocean. Rivers have been very important to the History of British Columbia. They served as a source of food and transportation links for First Nations People, explorers used the Rivers to travel, and during the Gold Rush rivers were seen as hot beds of Gold related activity. Today millions of Salmon return to rivers in British Columbia to spawn or lay their eggs. 

British Columbia is home to 70% of Canada's Fresh water fish species. In fact fishing makes up one of the four main industries in the Province and is a natural resource that is included in the goods sector. Aqua-Culture products also make up one of BC's major exports! 

Transportation via water is run through BC ferries which is a crown corporation that was started in 1960. BC ferries routes are currently divided into 5 regions that make up 47 different Ports of Call through out BC and has a fleet of 36 ships following the 25 different routes. 

Today water in British Columbia provides for a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, sailing, boating, kayaking, canoeing, dragon boating, white water rafting, tubing, water skiing, Wind Surfing, Surfing, water skiing, para sailing, Scuba diving, diving, beach combing, whale watching and fishing. 

World Poetry Day

World Poetry Day 

 Today March 21st is World Poetry Day and was sanctioned by the  United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization group back in 1999. The purpose of World Poetry Day is to promote the reading, writing, publishing and teaching of poetry throughout the world. Today recognizes Poetry's unique ability to capture the creative spirit of the human mind.

World Poetry day is also meant to pay tribute to and raise awareness of linguistic diversity and Endangered languages whilst giving them an opportunity to be heard and celebrated around the world. Today is also meant to create an enticing and attractive profile of Poetry as an Art form in hopes that it will encourage Poetry to gain popularity and regain it's reputation of a popular Art form in today's society. 

Mostly today is a day to celebrate all forms and types of Poetry as poetry deserves to have an internationally recognized Birthday of sorts as it is a language that has no boundaries. 

British Columbia has had a strong and diverse Poetic history and has continued to establish it's ties to Poetry through a strong online community. With the transition of the internet thus came the growth in popularity of self published writers and poets through mediums such as blogs. 

An example of British Columbia's modern contributions to Canadian Poetry is The Vancouver Poetry slam, which has been an annual event since 1996 and as such is the longest running Poetry Slam in all of Canada. 

Some famous Poets from BC include George Bowering Doug Beardsley, Bill Bissett, Robert Bringhurst, Susan Musgrave, Robin Skelton and Shane Koyczan Who was born in the North West Territories but grew up in Penticton, B.C.  

My favorite poem from a British Columbian Poet is We are more by Shane Koyczan. My favorite poem by a Non Canadian is When the Bough Breaks by Andrea Gibson  My favorite Historical poem is The Lady of Shalott by Lord Tennyson. Lastly my favorite Shakespearean Sonnet is Sonnet 116 Let us not to the marriage of True minds... 

Agricultural Safety Week

Did you know that every year during the third week of March it's Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW.) This is an annual event that serves as an Public  Awareness and educational campaign that aims to  raise awareness about the importance of practicing safe agriculture. 

The event although annual is always slightly different year to year because there is always a new designated theme for the week. This year the Canadian Agricultural Safety week will take place between March 15th and will end on the 21st. The theme for 2015 is Be the Difference! with the intent of raising concerns of Farm safety whilst encouraging Organizations & Businesses to make a difference in their farms by implementing ways to make farming safer! 

Agriculture is of high importance in British Columbia and it's history can be traced back thousands of years to when First Nations populations were left undisturbed to live off the land. Presently Agriculture remains a contributing factor to the Economy. Today more than 60,000 British Columbians work in BC's Agrifoods sector and continues to provide families with the means to be self sufficient as there is an estimated 20,000 family farms in operation. Everyone in the Agrifood sector work together to provide Healthy, fresh and local food options to everyone in the Province. Agriculture and and it's subsequent goods produced are one of our Provinces Major Exports. 


Our Agriculture Minister Norm Letnick who is a strong supporter of Agriculture and recognizes it's importance in our Province. Naturally He is highly supportive of the Canadian Agricultural Safety week &  made the following statements “We join with our federal and provincial colleagues and agriculture organizations in recognizing this important week and highlighting worker safety – a responsibility for us all.  These hardworking people go to work each day and contribute greatly to our province. The safety of these individuals at their workplace is paramount – and we want to ensure they return home each day to their loved ones." 

The 2015 Canadian Agricultural Safety week is brought to us by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) and the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) along with some assistance from the government of Canada through Growing Forward 2 which is a federal, Provincial and territorial initiative. 

Lastly in closing of my blog post I want to mention the contest that is taking place during the current week of Canadian Agricultural Safety week. 

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO #GROWSAFETY?

Hashtag #GrowSafety for your chance to win daily prizes worth over $100.

Share in a few words or submit a photo or short video what makes you a farm safety champion! Share your story on CASA's Facebook Page with the hashtag #GrowSafety, send a Tweet or post a photo on Instagram with the hashtag #GrowSafety, or Submit Your Story to CASA, for your chance to win! Click here to learn more about the #GrowSafety contest.

About The #GrowSafety Contest:

The #GrowSafety contest is a part of Canadian Agricultural Safety Week 2015.

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW) is a public education campaign focusing on the importance of practicing safe agriculture. CASW takes place during the third week of March and focuses on a new theme every year. In 2015, CASW takes place March 15 to 21 under the theme Be the Difference which encourages individuals and organizations to make a difference for farm safety.

CASW 2015 is presented by Farm Credit Canada and is brought to you by the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) and the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) with assistance from the Government of Canada through Growing Forward 2, a federal, provincial and territorial initiative.

The #GrowSafety contest is brought to you by Imperial and their Esso Branded Resellers.

For more information about Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, please visit agsafetyweek.ca.