Tonight's forum gives voters a chance to hear from most candidates

Tonight (Oct. 1) offers the only opportunity to hear from most candidates under one roof before casting your ballot in the upcoming federal election.

Starting at 7 p.m. at the Cochrane Alliance Church, you'll be able to hear the platforms of four candidates, ask questions and meet with them in person.

All five were originally confirmed but since then Liberal candidate Gwynth Midgley has withdrawn from the forum due to a schedule conflict.

Austin Mullins, Green Party

Participating are Austin Mullins (Green Party), incumbent MP Blake Richards (Conservative), Nadine Wellwood (People's Party of Canada) and Anne Wilson (NDP).

Organizer Chuck Collins says the candidates will be provided two minutes each to introduce themselves. That will be followed by a series of prepared questions. After an 8 p.m. intermission, written questions from audience will be asked. 

Blake Richards, Conservatives

During the first half, the written questions will be collected from the audience.

At the back of the room they'll be literature available from candidates.

Nadine Wellwood, PPC

Donations will be welcomed from those in attendance to cover the cost of the forum, Collins estimates will cost no more than $300. With no local organizations stepping forward, he took the initiative to organize the event. Should donations exceed costs, the balance will be donating to the Cochrane Activettes.

Stephen Simms will emcee the forum and Lindsay Seewalt will moderate.

Tomorrow night, a forum is being jointly hosted in Airdrie by the Airdrie Chamber of Commerce and the City of Airdrie.

Anne Wilson, NDP

On Thursday (Oct. 3), there's a debate specific to environmental issues in Canmore being organized by the southern Alberta chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society. Incumbent MP Richards says he will not be in attendance, explaining he only has time to participate in one forum per community. The Bow Valley Builders & Developers Association is also hosting a forum in Canmore on Oct. 17, which Richards will be attending.

The federal election is being held Oct. 21.