New Ownership and Modernization for Longtime Taxi Service

Checkmate Cabs is continuing its operations in Kelowna following its acquisition by Ashok Tyagi from previous proprietor Tom Wiltshire. The company, which has served the community since 1989, is being managed with assistance from legal advisor Chakkaravarthy Paramasivarthy. Tyagi and Paramasivarthy confirmed that the business is fully prepared to resume serving passengers, with Tyagi noting, “We’re just waiting on your calls.”

A transition event took place at the dispatch office on Sunday, Sept. 6, drawing attendance from Kelowna Mayor Tom Dyas and municipal council members. Local officials highlighted the positive community impact of keeping the business open and expressed support for its future growth. Tyagi, a 15-year Kelowna resident and former General Manager of competitor Kelowna Cabs, explained his motivation for buying the brand. “This community has given me a lot. So (this business) is not for money, or not for business, we are working to give back to the community. That is my goal,” he said.

Navigating Market Challenges and Rideshare Competition

Former owner Tom Wiltshire, who had run the business since 2005, revealed that Checkmate Cabs previously shut down in October 2025 due to downturns experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the pandemic, the firm operated 27 vehicles and employed 77 drivers. Wiltshire explained that he opted to close the business before facing potential insolvency or bankruptcy proceedings. Despite interest from multiple buyers, Wiltshire described selecting Tyagi as a “no brainer” due to their established professional relationship.

To compete against ride-sharing platforms, Tyagi plans to address what he identifies as a “technology gap” by integrating smartphone applications, interactive voice response (IVR) systems, updated dispatch tools, and eventually artificial intelligence. “I request to all taxi industry. They have to come with technology now… We have to work with it so we can grow with technology together,” Tyagi stated. He added that traditional phone-based dispatching will remain available for customers who value direct human contact.

Armstrong Celebrates 125th Annual IPE

Spectators lined the streets of Armstrong on the morning of Saturday, Sept. 5, for the annual Interior Provincial Exhibition parade. The procession featured an array of agricultural displays, with livestock such as goats and horses taking center stage alongside themed attire.

Photography and Agriculture Theme Highlighted

Celebrating a dual theme of photography and 125 years of agricultural excellence, the 2026 event delivered continuous photo opportunities along the crowded route. Visual coverage captured the festive procession for community members who were unable to attend the morning festivities in person.

Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Risk

Environment Canada has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the Central and South Okanagan on Saturday, Aug. 29. A low-pressure system in the upper atmosphere moving across southern British Columbia could bring heavy downpours and flash floods throughout the afternoon.

Forecasters note that the localized nature of convective storms makes the exact placement and intensity of the heaviest rainfall uncertain. The weather watch covers Kelowna, Summerland, Penticton, and Osoyoos, where daytime temperatures are expected to reach 18 C.

Safety Warnings for Residents

Environment Canada is cautioning travellers against driving through flooded roads and reminding the public that lightning causes injuries and deaths in Canada every year. Outlets including the Penticton Western News and Vernon Morning Star noted the agency’s safety advice: “When the lightning roars, go indoors.”