YLW Connection - Spring 2009 - (Page 19)

Celebrating 10 Years! B y 1999 passenger numbers at Kelowna International Airport reached just over 800,000, Kelowna’s population was approximately 90,000 and the Okanagan Valley was beginning to become a hot market for business, real-estate and development. Ian Rennie, retired district sales manager for Pacific Western Airlines, approached airport management with the idea of starting up an airport ambassador program in Kelowna. “I had seen this type of program around in other airports and thought it would be a good fit here – especially as the airport and community was growing,” explains Rennie. Airport management had been considering such a program for a while but didn’t know how they would staff it. Rennie approached both the local Canadian Airlines and Air Canada retires club and within months the Kelowna International Airport Ambassador program was established with 42 eager volunteers. These volunteers consisted of retirees with various backgrounds including former airline employees as well as former flight attendants from Trans Canada Airlines, Air Canada and Quantas who belong to the Canadian Maple Wings Association, Okanagan Chardonnay Chapter. “After being retired for so many years as a senior airline stewardess,” says 10-year Ambassador Gretchen Aird, “this was a fantastic opportunity to continue to assist and give passenger service at the ground level.” Initially known as the Red Coats with their bright red blazers and smiles that were even brighter, the Airport Ambassadors volunteer on regular weekly shifts with the key objective to provide added customer service by answering questions, helping with directions and assisting passengers, particularly seniors and those with disabilities. Today ten years into the program and passenger numbers just under 1.4 million, there are 70 volunteers and a waiting list for those wanting to be a part of the ambassador team. The ambassador’s roles have expanded slightly over the years and YLW is fortunate that 15 from the original 42 volunteers are still with the airport today. When asked what keeps them volunteering here their replies probably won’t surprise you. “I like to help people” is probably the number one reply. “Very few of us ever quit the program,” says Ambassador Helen Rouse “those that are no longer here either move away or die.” Stop and talk to an Ambassador. Each one has stories and memories to tell as Airport Ambassadors that will bring tears to your eyes. And if you have ever been helped by an Ambassador you will know their love for their job and compassion is far reaching. “We receive numerous letters each year from passengers who have been assisted by an ambassador and want to thank them for their help,” says Airport Director Sam Samaddar. “We are very fortunate to have such an excellent group of volunteers. Kelowna International Airport Ambassadors. They are family and have contributed a great deal to this airport’s success over the last 10 years.” Celebrating 10 years as Airport Ambassadors (in alphabetical order) are: Gretchen Aird, Olga Byrnes, Marg Carter, Bernie Danis, Ken Dewerson, Dan Dyer, Fred, Fairhall, Ron Goran, Hugh Montgomery, Ruth Montgomery, Ross Montgomery, Dorothy Montgomery, Ian Rennie, Helen Rouse, and Abby Sones n Creating memories to last a lifetime. Stunning luxury cottages designed to take advantage of the panoramic lake views, offer comfort and convenience for family and friends to enjoy year after year. Gateway Lakeview Resort offers a first class year round recreational lifestyle at their 70 acre pristine lake view development, including ~400’ of lake frontage with fabulous amenities. Located near golf, provincial parks, ski resorts and airstrip. Call us today for your tour! SPRING 2009 19

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of YLW Connection - Spring 2009

YLW Connection - Spring 2009
Contents
Airport Services
YLW Well Prepared for the Challenges of a Turbulent Economy
Connect with Calgary
Bird and Wildlife Management at YLW
Horizon Air - How Ambitious is Your Travel Check List?
YLW Supports the Environment
Alternate Transportation Initiatives
Destination Osoyoos
Celebrating 10 Years!
Spring Wine Festival Kicks Off - See You at the Finish Line
BC Air Ambulance Service - Teamwork at its Finest
Lake City Casinos Newest Casino in Vernon Aims to Exceed Expectations
Black & McDonald - Striving for Excellence in Customer Service
YLW News
Trivia & Games

YLW Connection - Spring 2009

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