Two all-candidates forums are scheduled to take place in Williams Lake leading up to the Oct. 19 federal election.
The organizers of an all-candidates meeting taking place in the lakecity next week are promising an old style format reflecting true politics.
"You will stand up, identify yourself and ask your question," said John Dressler of the Williams Lake Chapter of the Council of Canadians who is helping Thompson Rivers University host the event on Thursday Sept. 24, at 7 p.m. in the cafeteria.
Anticipating an enjoyable evening, Dressler said all-candidate forums in recent history have been "suspect, sanitized and unsavoury. I think this one will be good."
The meeting will be moderated by Dr. Ray Sanders of TRU and the university is inviting all of its students to participate, Dressler said.
Council of Canadians member Peter Smith has been contacting the candidates and said Thursday that five of the six candidates readily accepted the invitation to attend.
Smith, however, had not heard back from Conservative candidate Todd Doherty, who when reached by phone Thursday told the Tribune he was not aware if he could make it.
"My schedule has been jam-packed since June," Doherty said, but added he will check with his campaign office to see if he is already booked.
Doherty was unable to participate in an all-candidates forum held in Prince George Wednesday night because of previous commitments in Likely and Big Lake, he said.
Another forum is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 15 at Pioneer Complex from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and organized by the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce with support from the Northern Real Estate Board.
All of the candidates have been invited to participate, said president Angela Sommer.
Doherty did say he plans to attend the chamber's forum.
"We hope that we have a good turnout for the forum and strongly encourage Cariboo residents to get out and vote in the federal election," Sommer added.
Both forums are free and open to the general public.
Candidates running in the Cariboo Prince George riding are Christian Heritage Party - Adam De Kroon, Conservative Party - Todd Doherty, Green Party - Richard Jaques, Independent - Sheldon Clare, Liberal Party - Tracy Calogheros, New Democratic Party - Trent Derrick.
The Elections Canada office in Williams Lake is located at 190 Oliver Street and open Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m. Telephone number toll free 1-866-714-9650.
Election day is Oct. 19 and there are several advance poll options.