DC, very sorry that you won't be making this NAFO run. Maybe something will change between now and then so that you can revise your plans. As for the pic, yeah that jolted me, too, pretty strongly but it was the only shot I had of the Richard and his Audi and the good memories came back along with the sorrow.
As for Canadian dollars, I almost always buy some and almost never end up using them. Most places (fuel, food, groceries) take credit cards and the conversion fees (approximately 1% to 3%)are about the same as the "vig" when one converts currency. For me, there is also a transaction fee at the ATM for foreign currency so the tendency is to buy more than I need. Of course, that then provides a welcome excuse to head back north to Cannuckistan. YMMV.
My friend in Vashon, who might ride up to Castlegar to visit, made only one comment when I informed him of the rally: "Bring your rain gear." With June rain historically 13.5 days out of 30 days in the month, and with our being there for three or four days, he's probably correct.
Weatherbase Data For Castlegar