D O L P H I N

B C F E R R I E S E M P L O Y E E

Spring 2000

N E W S L E T T E R

Side by side at Swartz Bay, the Queen of Cumberland and the Spirit of Vancouver Island now proudly wear their BC Ferries 40th Anniversary logos.

Lets Make Memories

They say life begins at 40, and for BC Ferries, this is the year to find out! Employees throughout the fleet are dreaming up ways to have fun and enjoy the celebrations during this special anniversary year. Using existing budgets and involving current and past employees, the teams are developing a variety of activities for the year 2000 anniversary celebrations. The 40th Anniversary events are being put together by employee-led project teams in an effort to involve as many employees as possible. Its time to rebuild community enthusiasm and recapture our pride in BC Ferries, says David Niven, BCFMWU representative, in his role as one of the coordinators of the 40th Anniversary activities. We want to involve employees, customers and communities in a celebration of our history and in the development of an exciting future. Employee teams are exploring several ideas, such as creating a parade float and mascot, decorating terminals and vessels, producing a cookbook, time capsules and even participating in the national Trans Canada Trail Relay. As part of the celebration, the Dolphin will be collecting entries for an electronic photo album and scrapbook, and will be printing a representative selection in upcoming issues this year. We want to hear from you, whether you have a story, poem, photograph, memorable event or person that you want to tell us about. With your personal experiences and recollections, we can create a record from the past 40 years, so gather up your stories and submissions and send them to the Dolphin. If youd like to find out more and participate in this years activities, please contact the regional Communications Coordinator in your area: MAINLAND SERVICES (CENTRAL): Deborah.Dykes @bcferries.com, tel (604) 921-4283; MAINLAND SERVICES (SOUTH): Stephen.Nussbaum @bcferries.com, tel (250) 655-6187; INTER-ISLAND & NORTHERN SERVICES: Ann.Carpenter @bcferries.com, tel (250) 703-2331. At Fleet House, you can contact: Emilie Dor, Special Projects and Events at Emilie.Dore @bcferries.com, tel (250) 978-1269; Bill Bouchard, Corporate Marketing Group at Bill.Bouchard @bcferries.com, tel (250) 978-1288. You can also call the Employee Information Line at 1-877-280-1419 (in Victoria, call 978-1117).

Weve come a long way in 40 Years

IN OUR FIRST YEAR OF OPERATION, BC FERRIES CARRIED 692,000 PASSENGERS. IN FISCAL 99/00, THE LAST COMPLETE YEAR FOR WHICH WE HAVE STATISTICS, WE CARRIED 21,381,000 PASSENGERS.

PASSENGER MILESTONE YEARS:

1970 1979 1987 1992

5,000,000 10,000,000 15,000,000 20,000,000

WHATS INSIDE
BRAINSTORMING THE 40TH LORDY, LORDY, LOOK WHOS 40 STEP UP TO THE MIKE LAUGHTER LOG OUR FIRST BABY MUSEUM OF MEMORIES A SPECIAL PERSPECTIVE A COURSE FOR THE FUTURE OUR FAVOURITE RECIPES CAPTURE YOUR SPIRIT

Malcolm in the Middle

Thanks to the generosity of BC Ferries employees, Customer Relations Officer Malcolm Pearson is buried in goodwill! These furry friends have made their way to the Kakawis Family Development Centre on Meares Island, which provides drug and alcohol treatment for First Nations adults. The Centre also looks after the children of its patients and provides each child with a teddy bear during the parents stay. Unfortunately, due to a lack of funds, the Centre had the distressing task of asking the children to give the bears back when they left. After CHEK-TV news anchor Lee Mackenzie and husband Tony Cox made an appeal to CHEK, the BC Legislature and BC Ferries for teddy bears outgrown by the employees children, BC Ferries employees responded by donating over 200 bears to the first Operation Bearlift. Everyone at the Kakawis Centre was overjoyed and overwhelmed when West Coast Air delivered 450 stuffed toys to Meares Island in time for Valentines Day. The bears that brought smiles to the faces of our children are now bringing smiles to the children at the Centre, and we can enjoy knowing that the bears we donated have found new homes.

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BRAINSTORMING the 40th: the Human Resources Experience

A pioneer club for retirees; employee thank-you cards; time capsules; a departmental group photo: these were just some of the ideas that arose when members of the Human Resources Division sat down together one morning to talk about what they could do to help celebrate our 40th Anniversary. They split into three work groups to focus on employee recognition, long-service retirements, and enhancing regular activities. Head Office employees often have a bad reputation in the press or in the fleet, says Naomi Ponech, Administrative Assistant, Labour Relations, who was part of the employee recognition work group. I wanted to see something to recognize our Head Office employees serving in a volunteer capacity within the Corporation, such as the harassment intervenors. With a focused event such as a long-service retirement, you can really go to town on it. They came up with a million ideas, says Lonni Swanlund, Instructional Designer, Training and Development. Her group suggested adding the 40th Anniversary logo to material they already produce, such as retirement and training certificates, postings and pay cheques. Many times, employees go out of their way to help us, Lonni says. For example, it takes extra time to be part of a focus group, yet its so important to have that employee input. The 40th Anniversary year will kick off recognition for employees who go that extra distance. Many suggestions have already been implemented, such as putting a weekly message about BC Ferries history on the department whiteboard. Others, like the pioneer club, based on a BC Hydro concept, would take considerable organizing, and could only be developed with a great deal of further input. It was fun, and lots of good ideas came out of the session, Lonni says. Many of these suggestions have now gone forward for consideration.

(From left) Painters Ken Pearson and Bill Leslie went right to the top to paint the 40th Anniversary logo on the Spirit of British Columbias funnel during refit.

A Symbol of Our Celebrations

The 40th Anniversary represents a unique opportunity to involve our employees, customers and communities in a celebration of our proud maritime traditions as we look ahead to the future. The first step in this mission was the development of a special 40th Anniversary logo in honour of the men and women who have served the travelling public for four decades. This distinctive red and blue logo will appear throughout the fleet in various applications as the primary visual symbol of our celebrations. Last January, as part of their regularly scheduled refits, the Queen of Cumberland and the Spirit of British Columbia were emblazoned with crisp new 40th Anniversary logos. Simon Peters, Superintendent of Marine Coatings, says the project was a joint effort between many individuals in the signage and painting departments. We got the logo from the designer via the Internet, then made a transparency of it. We projected it on to coroplast sheeting to about 12 feet in diameter, then cut it out, and cut it in half for easy handling. We taped the stencil to the vessel, outlined it in pencil, and then filled it in with the red and blue paint. It really looks smart. Simon says that they normally create decals for this purpose and gives credit to Lorne Stead in the Paint Department for coming up with the stencil idea. According to Lorne, I realized the stick-on vinyl transfer would be too awkward to position at this site, and the cold weather and rain would deter proper adhesion. Painting the logo was simply a quicker, less expensive choice. Simon Peters says, I think its a good way for us to let people know that there are a lot of positive things about BC Ferries. Our fleet has been going for 40 years, and we can be proud of what were doing!

THEY REALLY DO CARE!

Trish Smiley, who initiated the CARES Committee at Swartz Bay, asked Val Townsend for some thoughts on customer service for the group. Val responded with her reasonably sized nutshell philosophy. Practice makes perfect is accurate when one thinks of Respect, Acceptance and Caring. Practice is all it takes, when mixed with a positive attitude. Respect: The importance of acting in a respectful, courteous manner towards people in all walks of life is paramount for any type of communication to be successful. Acceptance: Just waiting a few moments for a person to finish what they are saying, and letting them know we accept it - not necessarily agreeing with them, but hearing them works wonders. Caring: Often, in a difficult situation, when the customer is asked, what can I do for you? they are speechless. Show them you care. Could you be angry with someone who is eagerly trying to help you? When one imagines oneself in the same situation as another person, particularly in difficulty, it becomes easier to know what to do and to deal with the person(s) in a kind and productive way.
Thanks to Val Townsend, Secretary, Office of Marine Superintendent, Mainland Services, Swartz Bay for permission to extract from her presentation.

One of the working groups at work: (from left) Bruce Kerk-Hecker, Planning Program Assistant; Sandi Crosson, Employee Services and Compensation Technician; Stefan Graham, Classification Advisor; Sharon Bierd, Appointment Policy Advisor; Lore Cumberbatch, Secretary; and, Laurie Haberlin, Program Assistant.

SWARTZ BAY AND TSAWWASSEN SHOWCASE PROUD HISTORY

The Swartz Bay CARES (Customers Appreciate Really Excellent Service) Committee is taking the lead in developing ideas to celebrate BC Ferries 40th Anniversary at Swartz Bay. One great idea first surfaced at Tsawwassen terminal through discussions with Deanna Fernandes, Secretary, Terminal Planning and Resources, and Fred Haywood, Manager, Dangerous Goods and Terminal Resources. They suggested showcasing the historical milestones of the two terminals through the creation of a historical photographic collage. Spearheading the project at Swartz Bay are Kathy Marks, Trish Smiley and Lloyd Phillips. They plan to assemble a collage using a combination of corporate photographs and photos taken by employees. They hope to mount the collage on a wall or on a portable display. The finished project will be of significant interest for employees and regular customers, as well as tourists. Nancy Talbot, Terminal Planning and Properties, has offered to help interested groups with the corporate history of the terminals. Her department has a very complete photographic record of major construction undertaken at the terminals. The Swartz Bay CARES Committee is actively soliciting other ideas. If you have a suggestion, big or small, please contact any member of the Swartz Bay CARES Committee.

(From left) Len Crotty, Ticket Agent; Elaine Kerr, Ticket Agent; Kathy Marks, Ticket Agent; Sue Horn, Retail Merchandiser; Val Townsend, Secretary, Office of Marine Superintendent; and, Trish Smiley, Senior Ticket Agent (missing is Lloyd Phillips, Foot Passenger Ticket Agent) of the Swartz Bay 40th Anniversary Committee. There are 20 Swartz Bay CARES Committee members now - and counting!

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LORDY, LORDY, LOOK WHOS FORTY

KIDS: EXPERIENCE THE VOYAGE
Im really excited about the new Childrens Program and what a perfect time to be introducing it, says Jane Wolfenden, Office Manager, Comptrollers Office, who heads up this employee project team. The program will develop a link with young travellers through fun, educational activities for children four to 12 years old. Ideas under development include a fun, interactive section for children as part of BC Ferries website that will include, among other things, a virtual tour of the bridge and engine room and The Ships Whistle activity booklet that will include a route map with nautical and geographic information. Jane says that Chief Stewards, ships officers, and others will be consulted for input on the program and logistics. I think this will be a wonderful opportunity for both employee and community involvement and I appreciate the opportunity to be personally involved, she adds. The Childrens Program will be launched as a trial project this year, and will be evaluated with plans to continue and expand it in future. For more information, contact Jane Wolfenden at (250) 978-1228 or Jane.Wolfenden @bcferries.com. There is more than one reason to celebrate this anniversary year. Not only is June 15, 2000, BC Ferries 40th Anniversary, it is also the 40th Anniversary of the Queen of Sidneys inaugural run from Swartz Bay and the Queen of Tsawwassens inaugural run from Tsawwassen. When M.V. Sidney and M.V. Tsawwassen first sailed on June 15, 1960, no one could have predicted the excitement, success and expansion that followed. Both vessels were
The M.V. Tsawwassen as seen here on Route 1 in the early 1960s. Renamed the Queens, platforms were added to the car decks of the Queen of Sidney and Queen of Tsawwassen in 1971, increasing capacity from 106 to 138 cars.

instant success stories, not only with passengers, but with staff members who spent their days off at the terminals. In honour of this special occasion, Ann Carpenter, Communications Coordinator, Inter-Island and Northern Services, and Stephen Nussbaum, Communications Coordinator, Swartz Bay, are heading up employee teams to

explore ways for passengers, shore staff and crew to celebrate on June 15. If you have any suggestions or would like to participate, please contact Ann at Courtenay (250-703-2331 or Ann.Carpenter@bcferries.com) or Stephen at Swartz Bay (250-665-6187 or Stephen.Nussbaum@ bcferries.com).

STEP UP TO THE MIKE!

Can you name the Number One fear of human beings? If you answered the fear of public speaking, you are absolutely right, according to The Book of Lists. But some lucky folks are blessed with fearlessness when facing the front row of a waiting audience. These are the people who are about to help celebrate the Corporations 40th Anniversary as members of BC Ferries new Speakers Bureau. A corporate Speakers Bureau, like many good ideas that work well, is simple: first, assemble a group of enthusiastic volunteers, provide professional training, invite senior staff to offer specific background from all departments, and then stand back and watch the fun! Retirees make ideal Speakers Bureau volunteers, because they have many years of interesting real-life anecdotes to share with the public; theyre not involved in day-to-day workplace issues; and, best of all, they have some free time to spend as goodwill ambassadors celebrating our proud maritime tradition. Possible speaking opportunities include addressing school groups, serving as guest speakers for newly-hired employees, and educating and entertaining ferry passengers on several routes during a time in our history when positive news about BC Ferries is rare. This is a wonderful way to share our 40th Anniversary celebrations, says Customer Services Officer Michael Denton, who is a member of the employee team implementing plans for the Speakers Bureau. Our customers will not only be entertained, but will learn a lot about us. I think this is a super idea, said Wally Young, retired Chief Steward from Nanaimo, when he heard about the program. Weve a lot of history to explore and tell people about. Count me in for sure. What makes a good Speakers Bureau volunteer? A positive attitude about life in general and ones own corporate experience specifically is the most important quality, says Michael, who is approaching retirees with an invitation to participate. A comprehensive volunteer training program consisting of a
When the Queen of Sidney began her first scheduled sailings back in June 1960, she was manned by three watches, but nobody has a complete list of the crew. Can you identify anyone in the photograph? If you can, drop a note to the Dolphin. Theres a T-shirt in it for the person (or team of people) who can name the most people in our historical photo.

BC FERRIES in the Community

BC Ferries employees want their own community relations program and, throughout the fleet, employee teams are exploring ways for BC Ferries to get involved in their communities and participate in local events.
Retiree Alfie Carr is keen to move forward with the project. A former Chief Steward, Spirit of Vancouver Island, Alfie was a member of the first group piloting the Speakers Bureau training program.

number of full- and half-day workshops will be provided. The Speakers Bureau will be an ongoing program, starting with a limited number of retirees this year and expanding in future to include employees. This will be great. Im looking forward to joining the team and being a part of it, said retired Tsawwassen Terminal Manager Silvia Yeomans. If you are interested, or know someone who may be interested in participating, contact Michael Denton at (250) 655-6188, or Michael.Denton@bcferries.com

Were looking at the whole area of community relations for the long term, said Emilie Dor, Coordinator, Special Projects and Events. Its an area that can grow as our employees give us feedback on what they would like to do to link BC Ferries even closer to their communities, she said. Regional teams, working with Communications Coordinators Deborah Dykes, Stephen Nussbaum, and Ann Carpenter are working on the development of a list of community events and festivals where BC Ferries may participate.

Emilie Dor

Emilie is looking forward to supporting the community relations program initiatives and welcomes your calls at (250) 978-1269 or emails to Emilie.Dore@bcferries.com.

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THELAUGHTERLOG
The sun broke through the haze on a cold, crisp January morning in Howe Sound. For the first time in 20 days, it had stopped raining, presenting an ideal opportunity for a rescue boat drill. Greg Boom Boom Cooney and Richard Tricky Dicky Finnegan had gone away in the number one boat just off Grace Island, and were shivering as they waited for recovery at Langdale. Suddenly a plaintive cry was heard: Delta One, weve stalled the engine. A northerly outflow wind had come up and was setting the boat away from the ship towards the beach. What should we do? came the call. The answer was short and sweet. Get out the paddles, replied Delta One. Were tired, they cried, as they drifted backward, losing any sea room they had gained. Just keep paddling, said Delta One. And so they did, until the sweat ran. Eventually, Boom Boom discovered that, if the motor was in gear and they cranked the starter, they could actually get an extra knot of speed. Finally, they came alongside and were hoisted aboard. As they peeled out of their exposure coveralls that were damp from sea spray and perspiration, the Mate said, I think you flooded it. The Chief Engineer said, I think you forgot to unscrew the vent. Paddling is a lot of work and were not used to that, said Boom Boom and Tricky Dicky. So, for paddling above and beyond the call of duty, and for rescuing themselves, they were presented with the Golden Paddle Award.
Many thanks to Mike Davis, B Watch, Queen of Surrey, for this story and photo.

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Boy Scouts by the Boat Load

Langdale crews held their breath as 3,000 Scouts, attending the largest Jamboree on the Sunshine Coast in 40 years, travelled as foot passengers in groups of around 300 over a couple of days. And how did everyone cope? Melanie Plambeck, Assistant Terminal Manager, Langdale writes, I think I speak on behalf of the crews, both ship and shore, at Langdale when I commend the behaviour of the Scouts Canada troupes. Without exception, they were excellent passengers in all areas and we look forward to welcoming them back.

Meeting the Challenge CUSTOMER SERVICE

THANKS TO ALL OF OUR ENGINEERS THROUGHOUT THE FLEET WHO WORK SO HARD BEHIND THE SCENES. Good customer service isnt always highly visible. Sometimes the customers dont even know that theyre benefiting. Wayne Ralph, Engineering Superintendent, InterIsland Services (South), reminds us that, like an iceberg, a lot of good customer service can happen below the surface. He writes about the engineers on the Queen of Nanaimo who were faced with a damaged engine that would normally have taken the vessel out of service when the relief vessel, the Queen of Tsawwassen, was not available.

DEAR DOLPHIN Taking a gamble that they would be able to effect repairs (before the engine was dismantled for inspection), the decision was made NOT to cancel reservations and alert the public that the route would have to be closed down for the following day. Additional crew responded, coming in (at least one from vacation); the afternoon shift stayed back late; the morning shift came in early. The necessary temporary repairs were completed shortly before the vessels first sailing time of 0640, allowing the vessel to take traffic as normal and proceed with her sailing schedule, all without a hiccup and unbeknown to the public, although at a reduced service speed. Working behind the scenes, the engineers on the Queen of Nanaimo ensured that the best customer service possible was maintained.

(From left) Greg Boom Boom Cooney and Richard Tricky Dicky Finnegan receive the Golden Paddle onboard the Queen of Surrey.

OUR PEOPLE
BON VOYAGE After 24 years of service, Swartz Bay Terminal Supervisor Margaret Jestico was officially crowned Queen Margaret at her retirement party, and - to the enjoyment of staff and customers treated to a ride around the terminal in one of Victorias Kabuki cabs. After 26 years with BCFC, Jock Scullion, Trades Supervisor, Terminal Maintenance (South), Tsawwassen, has retired. Jock began at Deas Dock in 1973 when it was still under the Department of Highways. He has been responsible for ramp and facility maintenance during his career at Deas Dock, Tsawwassen, Sturdies Bay, Montague Harbour, Horseshoe Bay, Langdale, Bowen Island, Prince Rupert, Skidegate and 4 DOLPHIN | SPRING 2000 Alliford Bay. Jock was honoured by his friends and colleagues at the Terminal Maintenance South Golf Tournament, and presented with a set of golf clubs. His plans now include perfecting his golf game, visiting family and friends, and completing home renovations. Dolphin, noting: We have lots of fun at Langdale. We had a Secret Santa who turned out to be Sylvia. Robert Hann, Master, Long Harbour, after 24 years; Johnnie Karpenko, 1st Engineer, Langdale, after 24 years; Ernest Kiss, Assistant Engineer/Engine Room Assistant, Alert Bay, after 19 years; Philip Ledward, 3rd Engineer, Duke Point, after 18 years; Woo Ning Lee, Galley Helper, Tsawwassen, after 25 years; David Leslie, Deckhand, Langdale, after 33 years; Barbara Pittam, Administrative Assistant to Director of Security, Head Office, after 10 years; George Schweter, Sr. Chief Engineer, Tsawwassen, after 25 years; Carol Ann Thompson, Cleaner, Duke Point, after 11 years; Joseph Urbanczyk, Senior Bar Steward, Prince Rupert, after 33 years; Leonard Wilson, Building

Paul Fortin

Sylvia Kilduff as the Secret Santa

(From left) Al Winning, Jock Scullion, Alex Szabo

Sylvia Kilduff, Terminal Traffic Controller, Langdale, is retiring after 25 years of service. Some time ago, Heather December sent some seasonal photos to the

Cleaner/Driver Paul Fortin is retiring from Langdale after 22 years of service. Paul was one of our employees selected by a professional photographer during a fleet photo shoot last year, so we have this great photo of him.

Farewell and good luck as well to York Sing Chan, Chief Cook, Tsawwassen, after 33 years; Wing Jun Chang, Deckhand, Duke Point, after 27 years; Herbert Cunningham, Master, Hornby Island, after 26 years; Derena Dahlgren, Cashier Cafeteria, Nanaimo, after 25 years; Joanne Davis, Senior Staffing Clerk, Little River, after 23 years; David Dyke, Master, Little River, after 30 years; Beryl Grant, Staffing Clerk, Long Harbour, after 10 years;

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T O G E T H E R Dolphin Editorial Team Looks to the Future

For the first time ever, Dolphin Editorial Advisory Team members got together in one room to share their experiences with and thoughts about the Dolphin. Talking about the feedback they receive in their various areas, the team agreed with Cindy Richardson when she said, The Dolphin is an adhesive for employees. It builds a sense of community. Deborah Dykes commented that employees are pleased to see photos and activities from around the fleet in the Dolphin, because it helps to see what is going on beyond their point of assembly. David Niven noted that there is still a need for more in-depth issues. During the day, ideas flowed for the future direction of the Dolphin, which the team summed up as people, people, people! We discussed an e-Dolphin, and how an electronic version could work on the BC Ferries Intranet. Team members also suggested the possibility of sharing the Dolphin with the

The Editorial Team jokers enjoying a lighter moment are (from left) Della Wolfenden, Ed McKenzie, Anna-Maria Lustig, Stephen Nussbaum, Nigel Passmore, Paul Curtis, Arlene MacLeod (front), Jane Wolfenden (back), David Niven, and Cindy Richardson. (Absent from photograph: Ann Carpenter, Nancy Cameron, Deborah Dykes, Marilyn Grant, Carole McMillan, Anita Mahoney, and Jim Wilkinson.)

public, and putting it on the BC Ferries website. You are already seeing the results of the Editorial Advisory Team meeting. Starting with this issue, the graphic appearance of the Dolphin has been refreshed and, at the same time, made compatible to an electronic format. Our new masthead is now more colourful, more exciting, and more about our employees. In an e-Dolphin, the masthead photos have the potential of acting as hot links, taking readers directly to the story inside. The typeface

has also been changed to a more web-friendly style. The Dolphin thanks the employees of Information Services who turned their computer training room into a meeting room for the team. It was an exciting day. Arlene MacLeod of Prince Rupert said it best: I dont feel like Im working in isolation any more. Now I really feel like part of the team. Check for the electronic Dolphin on BC Ferries Intranet at insidebcferries.com.

REVVING UP BELOW DECK

During one of his fleet visits, President Bob Lingwood gets an engineering lesson onboard the Queen of Oak Bay. (From left) First Engineer Peter Alexander; Chief Engineer Sylvester Wrzesinski; Bob Lingwood; and, Captain K. Singh, the vessels Master.

TAKING A SOUND BEATING

Heading south through Queen Charlotte Sound from Prince Rupert towards Port Hardy one December day, the Queen of Prince Rupert ran into a very nasty winter storm, with seas of almost 10 metres and a wind of 80+ knots, gusting up to 140. While the passengers hunkered down, Paul Dexter, Cleaner, B Watch, snapped this dramatic shot and sent it to the Dolphin.

OUR FIRST BABY

Meet Gordon Wayne Skipper Earwaker, seen here receiving a lifetime pass as the first baby born onboard a BC Ferries vessel. Skipper surprised the crew of the Queen of Victoria on May 3, 1971. Does anyone know where the Skipper is today?

OUR PEOPLE
Service Worker, Deas Dock, after 3 years; Dennis Wilson, 1st Engineer, Nanaimo, after 33 years; Kuo Chung Wong, Catering Attendant, Horseshoe Bay, after 30 years; and, Daniel Young, Deckhand, Prince Rupert, after 24 years. ACCOLADES Customer compliments continue to arrive by phone, fax, mail, Internet, and in one case via paper napkin! The paper napkin was sent in by Lynda Laity, Customer Service Officer, PacifiCat Explorer, who writes that Casual Catering Attendant Tanya Burtini assisted a lady without anyone else knowing. The customer returned with a small gift for Tanya and a note that said: The gift I received from you was that your act of kindness touched me very deeplyso I wanted to give back! Lynda writes: This incident was very well received by all the crew. ACHIEVEMENTS Congratulations to Jackie Ngai, Tourism Groups Representative, Reservations Centre, who was elected to Saanich Council in her first run for municipal government. Jackie is no stranger to the voters, however, having served six years as a Trustee for Greater Victoria School District 61. HELPING HANDS Capt. Harry Martin, Senior Safety Advisor, was arrested in his office and thrown in jail by Don Cockburn and Maggie Wynde of Royal LePage but it was all for a good cause. Lynda Jamieson, Jane
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Once again, the families and friends of Deas Dock employees were treated to a spectacular day of tours and entertainment, food and fun at the 1999 Deas Dock Family Day. It was a great day for all, especially for the kids, and a fine start to the refit season. Many thanks to all of the volunteers who worked so hard to make this happen.

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MUSEUM OF MEMORIES
What better way to profile the experiences of the women and men of BC Ferries who have served the travelling public these past 40 years? Thats the overwhelming feeling when visiting the BC Ferries gallery at the Maritime Museum of British Columbia in Victoria one of the worlds largest collections of its kind. Opened in July 1997, the gallery illustrates the history of BC Ferries in a series of nautically-inspired display cases. Contributions to the display came directly from the people who have fuelled BC Ferries ships and terminals with their dedication and professionalism over the past four decades. Eleven staff and retirees made up two committees, the Heritage and Working Committees, and called on people from throughout the fleet to donate items of interest. It was like a treasure hunt, said Peg Buchanan, a Marketing Department retiree from Tsawwassen. People scoured their offices, closets and attics for memorabilia, some of which dates back to the early days of the first ferries. Pat Stephens, an Information Officer with the Corporate Marketing Group, said the array and quantity of items collected were terrific. We collected photos, uniforms and even some of the china and silver from the dining rooms of early vessels, she said, adding that itemizing the thousands of artifacts no small undertaking had to take place in a large warehouse. The efforts of the committees have reaped rewards a hundred times over. These are more than

e-Album of Memories
Soon youll be able to click on BC Ferries website and surf our history! As part of the 40th Anniversary celebrations, employees are creating a virtual photo album that will be posted on the Internet for employees and customers alike to enjoy. Paul Curtis and Pat Stephens of the Corporate Marketing Group are working on developing the content. Were putting together a 40th Anniversary history page, says Paul. Well have a brief history of BC Ferries and a series of nautical milestones from the last 40 years. Pat Stephens has

Former Dolphin editor Pat Stephens, Information Officer, Corporate Marketing Group, has a treasure trove of BC Ferries archival material.

TODAYS SOUVENIRS: TOMORROWS MEMORABILIA

Special coffee mugs, a generic replica of a Spirit vessel, and the very-popular travel mugs bearing the BC Ferries 40th Anniversary logo will be appearing in the gift shops of major vessels in May. Merchandiser/Buyer Liz McIntosh is working with suppliers to ensure that these memorable souvenirs are available in plenty of time for Anniversary Week, commencing June 12. Were pleased to be able to be part of bringing the 40th Anniversary celebrations to our customers, says Arensha Garrison, Manager, Retail. Well be ordering enough merchandise to carry us through July, and will continue to stock it as long as the demand lasts.

been enormously helpful, searching out archival photos and providing descriptions of them for the page. The Dolphin will also be posting the stories, poems and photos it receives on the BC Ferries Intranet.

(From left) Working Committee Chair Peg Buchanan and Guy Mathias, Head of Collections, Exhibitions and Programs, Maritime Museum, with detailed model of the Spirit of British Columbia featured in the BC Ferries gallery.

just artifacts, said the Museums Collections Manager, Lynn Wright. These authentic displays represent peoples memories, and a surprising number of visitors that come through the gallery leave us with a story or two of their own. The Maritime Museum of British Columbia is the official custodian of BC Ferries heritage. President of the Board John Anderson and Executive Director Yvonne Sharpe invite all BC Ferries employees and their immediate families to visit the Museum FREE OF CHARGE for the rest of this 40th Anniversary year. Simply show your BCFC identification at the door. The Maritime Museum is open from 9.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., seven days a week, at 28 Bastion Square, Victoria.

A Special Perspective
As one of few people who has used BC Ferries in every one of its 40 years, Chair of the Board of Directors, Michael Francis, has a special perspective on the Corporations upcoming anniversary. Having commuted weekly from Vancouver to Vancouver Island for most of those years, he knows the ferries intimately. Even as a young boy growing up on Bowen Island, Michael bobbed on the wash of the ferriesbefore they belonged to BC Ferriesas he fished from his own boat. Its especially easy for me to appreciate the fact that the Corporation is a vital link, from both a social and an economic point of view, Michael says, and that maintaining it as a healthy, vibrant entity is essential to the well-being of the province.
Michael Francis, Chair of the Board

Because he rides the ferries every week, Michael sees the front-line staff on a regular basis. I am always so impressed by their good humour and their attention to the comfort of the passengers, he says. It makes me very proud to be involved with them. As both a veteran ferry user and as Chair, Michael congratulates all BC Ferries employees, not only on the occasion of the 40th Anniversary, but also for enduring the challenges of the past year. I compliment everyone on coming through one of the most difficult years any corporation could have.

OUR PEOPLE
about it. On a visit to Fleet House this winter, he again met Betty, who has returned to BC Ferries as Director of Communications. And the first thing she said to him after so many years? Hey, I have a bone to pick with you. Youre the one who took all those pictures of feet. BUT SERIOUSLY, FOLKS It was a serious message delivered in a fun way as the Deas Dock Safety Awareness Day wound up a week of safety activities. There were safety supplier displays in the Life Raft Centre, a life ring toss competition, fire hose fun, CPR demonstrations by the Richmond Fire Department and BC Ferries own safety competition teams, along with prizes for the week-long safety trivia quiz and safety

(From left) Capt. Harry Martin arrested by Sheriffs Don Cockburn and Maggie Wynde.

Captain and Mrs. Glentworth

On Sunday, February 13, the Sunshine Coast Shriners boarded the Queen of Surrey to present Captain Finn Anderson and the crew with a certificate of thanks for allowing them onboard to entertain the passengers over the Christmas period.

Wolfenden, Joan Robertson, Behram Dadachanji, and Ed McKenzie all went to work to make bail for Harry, raising $588 for the Kidney Foundation of Canada, B.C. Branch, and springing Harry from his cell. Langdale highlighted World AIDS Day by sporting red ribbons and raising $75 for people living with HIV. The funds were donated to AIDS Vancouver. 6 DOLPHIN | SPRING 2000

CONGRATULATIONS Two more members of our BC Ferries family have tied the knot. Congratulations to Capt. Lew Glentworth, Queen of the North, and Bev Stansbury, former Administrative Assistant, Employee Relations (and Dolphin assistant), on the occasion of their marriage last December, and best wishes to you both for much happiness together.

SECRET RECIPE On a field trip to Thetis Island School, Nancy Cameron, former Communications Coordinator Inter-Island Services (South), discovered the real secret recipe for improving customer relations. She received the following description of her visit written by a young student: She brought the toy ferry that we folded up and she talked. She took pictures too. But the

most important thing about Nancys visit was that she brought cookies. IN FEET FIRST Back in 1976, Betty Nicholson, then a BCFC Communications Officer, left her camera behind during a northern trip. As a joke, Capt. Lew Glentworth and his crew filled the roll with photos of feet and returned the camera later onboard the vessel. They never, ever heard a word

N G

P E O P L E

T O G E T H E R

A COURSE FOR THE FUTURE

With President and CEO Bob Lingwood well into his second year at the helm, BC Ferries has charted a new course and is on the way to re-establishing itself as a transportation company that puts customers first and values the employees who are the backbone of our service. Soon after his arrival, Bob set four priorities for the Corporation: addressing financial challenges, dealing with issues surrounding the PacifiCats, establishing a five-year capital plan and refocusing on customer service. Substantial work has been done in all of these areas. The refinancing of BC Ferries and the removal of $1.1 billion in debt is one of the most significant financial restructurings of a crown corporation in B.C.s history. Bob explains that the decision to sell the three PacifiCats was made after careful analysis. In addition to concerns expressed by customers, residents along the route, tourism groups and the trucking industry, we concluded that the long-term operation of fast ferries is not financially feasible. We are now moving quickly on a process to get the best price for each vessel, he says. BC Ferries will continue to operate the PacifiCats on a supplementary and rotational basis to demonstrate their value to potential buyers. This particular chapter in our history is past and the Corporation needs to move on. As part of the overall strategy to rebuild the Corporation, a five-year capital plan has been developed to improve services while giving the Corporation a foundation for maintaining its terminals and fleet, without significant increase in tariff. Bob is pleased with governments support for the plans and says, The first thing we did was to bring back the Marguerite III from the Victoria customers needs in the best possible manner. We want to take a more organized and coordinated approach to employee training, he says. Were looking at initiating training programs for clerical and support staff and front-line supervisors, as well as for the next generation of engineers, deck officers and masters.

Behram Dadachanji, Director, Internal Audit, cooks up a stack of pancakes at a recent community breakfast.

Ferry Breakfasts Truly Appreciated

Three times this year, 20 to 25 BC Ferries employees will rise early in order to cook breakfast for up to 300 homeless and less fortunate people in Victoria. Although this charity event is little known, it is clear that these efforts are well appreciated by those who have fallen on difficult times. At a recent breakfast, a diner was moved to stand and offer this toast: Thank you very much, BC Ferries. Dont let them sell your company. Its no wonder BC Ferries employees from Fleet House and Swartz Bay have shown great enthusiasm by volunteering their time or donating money for this cause. For those interested in participating in future breakfasts, contact Maureen Picyk at (250) 978-1350 or Maureen.Picyk@bcferries.com, Monique Turgeon at (250) 978-1503 or Monique.Turgeon@bcferries.com, or Jim Ferguson, Supervisor, Help Desk and Regional Support, Information Services at (250) 978-1547 or Jim.Ferguson@bcferries.com.

(From left) Rob Clarke, Vice President, Finance and Corporate Services; Capt. Mike Carter, Executive Vice President, Operations and Customer Services; and, Bob Lingwood, President and CEO, visit the Princess Marguerite III, joining our fleet as the Queen of Burnaby. The vessel has been serving the Victoria-Seattle route for the past three years.

Top Tourism Draw

Line Ltd., repaint her, rename her the Queen of Burnaby and put her into use this summer as an extra vessel. The Corporations fourth priority, customer service, has focused on employee recruitment, selection and customer service training, especially for front-line and summer staff. Bob believes that an important part of keeping BC Ferries on a sound financial footing is to ensure that our operational needs match our With the challenges faced by the Corporation in the past year, and the hard work that is being done to address them, Bob sees the Corporations 40th Anniversary as a major achievement and a great opportunity to look ahead. I hope it will mark the point at which we put the problems of the past few years behind us, and can look forward to a brighter future.

Bill Bouchard, Director of Corporate Marketing, meets with a European tour operator at the Canadas West Marketplace at the Victoria Conference Centre. This annual event, sponsored by Tourism British Columbia, Travel Alberta and Canadian Airlines, provides an excellent opportunity for B.C.- and Alberta-based companies to showcase their travel products to international buyers. BC Ferries is such an important part of any travel itinerary to British Columbia that we were given the exclusive opportunity to have a double booth at the show, reports Bill.

OUR PEOPLE

Watching a CPR demonstration.

key scavenger hunt, and a 30-day safety award lunch. Many thanks to organizers Gary Gerein, Occupational Safety Officer, Paul Rolland, Manager, Inventory, and Peter Blair, Superintendent, Quality Assurance, and their many volunteers for all the work they put into making this such a fun and successful week.

(From left) The winning foursome: Ed Koshman, Terminal Development, Horseshoe Bay; Jock Scullion, Terminal Maintenance, Tsawwassen; Tim Hull, Machine Shop, Deas Dock; and, Danny McJannet, Terminal Development, Tsawwassen.

The 3rd Annual Golf Tournament hosted by Terminal Maintenance South was held at Langleys Newlands Golf and Country Club and, once again, the tournament was very successful with 44 participants from Fleet House, Swartz Bay, Horseshoe Bay, Deas Dock and Tsawwassen. The Texas Scramble format was played and awards were presented at the dinner buffet. Guest Beth Salchenburger and Greg Gammer, Paint Shop, Deas Dock took the prizes for longest drive, while Kim Boudreau, Galley West Tsawwassen, and Terry Salchenburger, another guest, won awards for closest to the pin. Guests Tina Burbank and Bill Barr won the putting trophies. Golfers the 4th Annual Golf Tournament will be held on June 17, 2000, at Carnoustie Golf Club, Port Coquitlam.

Last year, more than 20,000 B.C. Grade 9 students joined their parents and guardians on the job as part of Take Our Kids To Work, organized by the Learning Partnerships of B.C. Seven employees and their kids visited Fleet House for a tour, which included briefings and information packages. It gave them a real glimpse into the working world, says Sonja Martins, Policy Analyst, Human Resources, who organized the successful day. (From left) Katerina Kuwert and mother Cindy, Sonja Martins, Alexis Sullivan and son Jack, Jared Rawson and mother Chris.

WHATS HAPPENING?? Remember, if you have something to share with your fellow employees, send it along to the Dolphin!

DOLPHIN | SPRING

2000 7

Employees Make Their Mark in History

Chief Cook Wally Chow, B Watch, was one of over 200 crew and passengers who signed the B.C. 2000 Millennium Book onboard the Queen of Oak Bay in March. All British Columbians will have a chance to sign the book as it travels to more than 200 communities this year. Pages are also available for signing at credit unions throughout the province. After December 31, the B.C. Book will go on permanent display at the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria, and a page will be turned each day. Designed and handcrafted from a variety of B.C. woods and highlighted by gold leaf, the book was created by Victoria artisans Philip Smith (husband of our Dolphins Lois Smith) and Katherine Woods.
Our thanks to the many employees who assisted with this issue of the Dolphin. Contributing writers were Stephen Nussbaum, Ann Carpenter, Carol Vincent, Lois Smith, Darcy Hebert, Heather Goodman, Carolyn Thomas, Mike Davis, Erinn Grant, Deborah Dykes, Merrie-Ellen Wilcox, Karen Ivand, Maureen Cumming, Joan Broadhurst, and Brenda Ricketts. Photographic assistance was provided by Stephen Nussbaum, Deborah Dykes, Michael Denton, Ellery Littleton, Nigel Passmore, Ed McKenzie, Phil Jones, and Paul Dexter.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY TEAM

Ann Carpenter Communications Coordinator; Inter-Island and Northern Services Paul Curtis Corporate Marketing Group; Marketing and Business Development Deborah Dykes Communications Coordinator; Mainland Services (Central) Marilyn Grant Information and Privacy; Corporate Secretarys Office Anna-Maria Lustig Senior Coordinator, Customer and Employee Communications; Corporate Communications (Editor) Anita Mahoney Executive Secretary; Presidents Office Ed McKenzie Manager, Employee Development; Organizational and Employee Development Arlene MacLeod Secretary; Northern Services Carole McMillan Clerk; Human Resources David Niven Retired Chief Engineer, SOVI; BC Ferry and Marine Workers Union Stephen Nussbaum Communications Coordinator; Mainland Services (South) Nigel Passmore Asbestos Inspector; Deas Dock Cindy Richardson Secretary; Technical Operations Jim Wilkinson A Watch, Tsawwassen; BC Ferry and Marine Workers Union Jane Wolfenden Office Manager; Comptrollers Office The Dolphin Corporate Communications BC Ferries 2nd Floor, Fleet House 1112 Fort Street Victoria BC V8V 4V2 Fax: (250) 978-1119 AnnaMaria.Lustig@bcferries.com

OUR FAVOURITE RECIPES

In 1988, Silvia (Carter) Yeomans, now retired Tsawwassen Terminal Manager, solicited employees for their favourite recipes. The response was great: from bar-b-ques to holiday dinners, scrumptious salads and hardy soups to decadent deserts, the recipes poured in. Sylvia got busy sorting and organizing the recipes into the first BC Ferries employee cookbook. It had everything! Children enjoyed making their own playdoh and finger paints. Even the family dog was remembered with homemade dog biscuits. The books went on sale to employees, who snapped them up for their own kitchens as well as for gift giving. The money raised was used to support the Handicapped Christmas Cruise. This year we celebrate our 40th Anniversary and it is time for a second edition. Send your favourite recipes to Joan.Broadhurst@bcferries.com. Please remember to include your name, position and location. As before, all proceeds from sales of the book will go to local non-profit charities, and we are asking for your suggestions for suitable charities in your area. In honour of our industry, wed prefer non-profit organizations in the marine industry, such as Search and Rescue. Im looking forward to adding this edition to my cookbook collection, and seeing your name alongside Our Favourite Recipes! says Joan. She adds, Look for our information posters around the fleet, or call me at (250) 978-1258 for more information.

Capture Your Spirit By Brenda Ricketts

Come sail the deep blue sea On a British Columbia ferry. On the sundeck relax and snooze Or gaze at the scenery while you cruise. Watch orca whales breach and play, Ducks and loons and birds of prey. Sailing through Active Pass The ships horn will give a blast. The fishing boats motor on their way, From the wake of the ferry they do sway. The white dots in the tall green trees Are eaglets waiting to fly free. The seagulls are loyal as can be. They follow the ships as we cross the sea. Theyll squawk, of course, and fly real low To fetch the treats that people throw. When they are tired theyll hitch a ride Atop the mast, bobbing with the tide. Summer is fragrant in beautiful B.C. Amid red roses and pink peonies. The Inner Harbour is a sight to see, The Parliament Buildings, the Empress high tea. So come on over, sail with us By foot, cycle, car or PCL bus.

The Dolphin is published for the employees of the British Columbia Ferry Corporation by Corporate Communications. Submissions and photographs are welcomed from throughout the fleet. Please ensure that you have permission to publish from any person mentioned in your submission or appearing in a photograph. e-Dolphin on BC Ferries Intranet at inside.bcferries.com. For weekly updates, call the toll-free Employee Information Line at 1-877-280-1419. In Victoria, call 978-1117. British Columbia Ferry Corporation Articles may be reprinted only with written permission from Corporate Communications.

Brenda Ricketts is a Coffee Shop Attendant at Galley West, Tsawwassen.

Joan Broadhurst with her cherished copy of the first BC Ferries employee cookbook.

8 DOLPHIN | SPRING 2000

Printed on recycled paper Recyclable