I’ve been in Ottawa the last two weeks as Parliament resumes sitting after its summer break.  It was a relaxing summer for most of us, but I want to acknowledge that for some it was full of anxiety and stress due to wildfires.  The Slocan Valley in particular was on fire for many weeks, forcing […]

By Randy Shore The government’s capacity to manage wildlife has declined steadily for decades. Its ability to conduct meaningful science is scraping along at rock bottom. Just last week we learned that government field staff are being asked to turn in their cell phones and have lost funding for travel, which will likely force the […]

I was honored to present the King Charles III Coronation Medal to four very special constituents: Darlene Schultz, Ann Godderis, Gerry Rempel, and Jan Morton were all recognized for their exemplary service. One hundred and fifty-five recipients throughout the province received this award, representing a diverse group of individuals who have made significant contributions to […]

Community Futures South Kootenay and the Downtown Trail Improvement Committee (DTIC) are excited to announce a new initiative to guide the revitalization of downtown Trail. Led by Community Futures and guided and supported by dedicated DTIC volunteers, the project focusses on how we can prevent crime and create a more vibrant and welcoming business hub. […]

New Ministry of Wildlife, Land and Resource Management is cannibalizing fish, wildlife and habitat funds, regional operations are in crisis Government cuts travel funding for fish and wildlife staff Field staff asked to turn in their government cell phones to cut costs Regional office decimated by frustrated staff quitting or on leave Provincial government fish and wildlife programs are in […]

A fresh chapter of post-secondary life, affordability and access was officially opened on the Castlegar Campus with the completion of a 114-bed student housing facility overlooking the majestic Columbia River. Part of the Provincial Government’s Homes for People Action Plan, the Selkirk College project is a two-pronged housing solution that includes 36 units of student housing […]

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dianna Rose Edwards, who peacefully left us on August 1, 2024, one day short of her 81st birthday. Dianna was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend. Born on August 2, 1943, Dianna grew up in Vancouver, BC, where she developed a lifelong […]

Four distinguished individuals from the West Kootenay region will be honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal at a private ceremony this afternoon. The event will take place at 3 p.m. in the new Confluence building in Castlegar. The recipients of this prestigious award are: • Gerry Rempel (Castlegar); • Darlene Schultz (Castlegar); • […]

On Thursday, Sept. 19, Teck Trail Operations will be staging an emergency response exercise. This exercise is a training opportunity for Teck and our mutual aid partners. The exercise will take place at Teck Trail Operations between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m.  During this time, there will be an increase in emergency response vehicles in […]

A major initiative in the U.K. has confirmed what many studies have found: spending time in nature is good for you! The government-supported project helped more than 8,000 people in England connect with nature through outdoor walks, community gardening, tree planting and wild swimming. According to the Guardian, “The results showed that after taking part […]