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Letter to the Editor The City of Cranbrook participates in the Recycle BC program by providing curb-side recycling in Cranbrook. Most Cranbrook residents agree that the “green bin” program is an excellent and efficient way for homeowners to participate in a small practical way to do their part in being environmentally conscientious. However, did you know that several hundred Cranbrook homeowners are denied access to this city program?

By Stan Chung Op-Ed Commentary Cranbrook votes on October 17. After 10 years, let’s ask for more than promises of growth, better services, and careful spending. We need an account of what our leadership has changed—and why so many problems remain.

Sometimes, making a difference starts with something as simple as noticing a weed. At the East Kootenay Invasive Species Council’s (EKISC) Annual General Meeting on September 29, we were pleased to present our 2026 Golden Shovel Award to the citizens of the City of Kimberley. Since 2010, EKISC has presented the Golden Shovel to an individual or organization that has made a significant contribution to invasive plant management or awareness in the East Kootenay.

The final list of candidates for the 2026 Provincial General Election is now available on the Elections BC website. Candidate nominations closed at 2 p.m. (Mountain Time) on October 3, marking the end of the period in which eligible individuals could apply to be a candidate in the provincial general election. There are 355 candidates for the 2026 Provincial General Election, with 340 representing 10 political parties, and 15 candidates running as independent or unaffiliated.

Letter to the Editor Elections come and go, but what matters between them is whether the people who step forward are prepared to serve. Tom Shypitka didn’t ask me to write this, nor was it prompted by his campaign. For as long as I’ve known him, Tom has been a core part of this community and someone willing to show up when it matters. During my years working in federal politics, I had the opportunity to work with Tom in his role at the time as our MLA.

We’re pleased to share that proceeds from the 36th annual Columbia Valley Classics Show & Shine, held September 18 and 19, have supported a $20,000 donation to Angel Flight East Kootenay and a $5,000 donation to the David Thompson Ski & Snowboard Club. In the Angel Flight photo, Columbia Valley Classics Club President Arnold Scheffer and Club Treasurer Don Parkin present the cheque to Angel Flight representative Scott Wallace.

A heartfelt thank you to the Birdie Juice 2.0 Women’s Golf Club for their incredible donation of $4,200 toward the EK Hospice Home Building Fund. Your generous support helps build a place of comfort, dignity, and care for local families when they need it most. We are so grateful for your community spirit! Pictured: CKHS Chair George Watson accepting the cheque from four members of the 10-player team (left to right: Shelley, Debbie, Pam, and Dee.

Road Safety at Work’s Winter Driving Safety campaign launches, urging drivers to choose tires suited to the conditions they face As B.C.’s winter tire requirements took effect October 1, Road Safety at Work is launching its Winter Driving Safety campaign with a recommendation for drivers: Look beyond the minimum legal standard when choosing your tires.

The District of Invermere 2026 Great Scarecrow Competition & Tour has begun. From October 1–14, take a tour around Invermere and discover this year’s creative, spooky, silly and spectacular scarecrows. Follow the 2026 Scarecrow Tour Map, visit the participating scarecrows and then come back to vote for your favourites. Tour maps are available online and in the lobby of the Columbia Valley Centre. Competition Prizes There are three competition categories: Business; Community Group; Resident.

The 2026 General School Election will be held on October 17, with Advance Voting opportunities for Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Electoral Area B electors, RDEK Electoral Area F electors, and Village of Canal Flats electors on October 7. Additional Advance Voting dates include October 13 for RDEK Electoral Area B and F Electors, while Village of Canal Flats electors will be able to cast their ballot in an advance vote on Thursday, October 15.