There are variations of the origin story of the NORAD/Santa tradition (just like with all other long-standing traditions) but we all agree it started 70 years ago this Christmas. I’ll tell you what I know. It started in 1955 when a child called CONAD (Continental Air Defense Command) looking to talk to Santa Claus. Now, […]

Many of us are getting in the swing of the holiday season, It’s an exciting time, and one I’m so happy to be back in Fruitvale with my family, friends and loved ones to celebrate. We should keep safe and celebrate with care and concern for others. Recently many of us have been reminded of treacherous weather […]

On April 4, 2025, the Castlegar RCMP Crime Reduction Unit, with support from general duty officers and police dog services, executed a search warrant at a residence located in the 1300 block of Columbia Avenue in Castlegar, according to RCMP Cpl. Brett Urano. He  said investigators seized a quantity of drugs believed to be fentanyl, […]

On Nov.29, at approximately 9:30 p.m., a victim was assaulted by an unknown man on the 970 block of Spokane Street, Trail, BC. The victim was grabbed and tossed onto the ground. The victim sustained injuries that required them to go to the hospital. Police are looking to identify the suspect and need witnesses to […]

Selkirk College distributed 55 holiday food hampers to students, thanks to the dedicated fundraising efforts of students in the Steps to Opportunities, Academics and Readiness (SOAR) Program on the Silver King Campus and the generosity of donors on Giving Day, an annual fundraiser to support key priorities. Packed with non-perishable food items, the hampers are one of the […]

Last week, our government wrapped up what was a busy, full, and productive fall legislative session. I’m heading home today for the holidays, I’m looking forward to connecting with constituents to talk about the work that we are doing, hear from you about your thoughts and ideas, and of course attend the many amazing holiday […]

An investigation resulting in the arrest of a 60-year-old Ontario man by members of the Critical Response Unit – BC (CRU-BC) has culminated in assault and mischief charges against him, according to BC RCMP  Staff/Sgt. Kris Clark. “On Sept. 3, 2025, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) applied for and was granted a Warrant to […]

Last week marked part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence. Monday before last, we observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and on Dec. 6, we marked the anniversary of the Polytechnique Montréal massacre, before closing with UN Human Rights Day on Dec. 10. Each of us knows […]

KERPA is celebrating a huge moment for rural critical emergency care in the Kootenays as a new doctor achieves training to join emergency physician response team. After 440+ hours of rigorous training — including 300+ hours of one-on-one in-car mentoring under direct physician supervision, countless high-fidelity simulations, advanced airway labs, advanced life support and trauma […]

The Rotary Club of Trail Presents the 2025 Rotary Christmas Carol Concert, Admission is by donation with all contributions going to provide Christmas Hampers for needy area families. Date: Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m. Location: Charles Bailey Theatre in Trail. They have a fantastic lineup of bands and choirs […]