I was recently honoured to be chosen as the NDP candidate in the new federal riding of South Okanagan-West Kootenay. I thank all who took part in the nomination election process. I especially thank and congratulate my fellow candidate, Margaret Maximenko, and her team, for a tremendous campaign—a campaign that added hundreds of people to an already healthy riding membership. I also thank the many people who worked hard on my nomination campaign—your help is truly appreciated. I appreciate the guidance of Alex Atamanenko, who has ably served much of this riding as MP for the past nine years; his will be big shoes to fill.
This is a big, diverse, spectacular riding, from the vineyards and orchards of the south Okanagan through the beautiful Kettle Valley, the industries of the West Kootenay and up into the hidden beauties of the Slocan Valley and Arrow Lakes. Over the past 10 months I have travelled throughout the riding many times and have met many wonderful people. It has been a rewarding experience, and I look forward to more exploration and learning as I continue to travel the riding in the months ahead. I welcome any comments, suggestions or questions from anyone in the riding—please contact me at dickcannings@shaw.ca.
Richard Cannings
Penticton
NDP candidate—South Okanagan-West Kootenay